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Archive 2 

Klitschko-Briggs Presser

Photo: Vlad Dudka

WBC heavyweight champ Vitali Klitschko and former world champ Shannon Briggs pose during Monday's press conference for their upcoming title bout. Klitschko vs Briggs will take place October 16 at the O2 World Arena in Hamburg, Germany.

Senchenko Decisions Navarro, Retains Title

WBA welterweight champ Viacheslav Senchenko (31-0 20KOs) retained his title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Charlie Jose Navarro (18-4 13KOs) Monday at Lenin Square in Donetsk, Ukraine. Scores were 115-113 (twice), 116-112.

In a bout for the EBU featherweight title, Sofiane Takoucht (20-1 19KOs) scored a twelve round unanimous over Oleh Yefimovych (18-2 11KOs).

Stanyslav Merdov UD(12) Suat Laze

Volodymyr Kravets UD(12) Tarik Madni

Iago Kiladze UD(10) Arturs Kulikauskis

Artem Karpets UD(10) Ihor Fanian

Stanyslav Kashtanov KO(2) Ruslans Pojonisevs

"I Want To Fight The Best, If Not Khan Then Bradley" Says Maidana

WBA junior welterweight interim-champion Marcos Maidana,won a hard twelve round decision this past Saturday over DeMarcus Corley in front of his hometown crowd of nearly 15,000 fans at Luna Park in Argentina. Now, Maidana is asking Golden Boy Promotions (who promotes Maidana) to get him a deal to face full WBA champion Amir Khan on December 11 in England.

If a deal can't be reached with Khan, Maidana would want to face WBO champion Timothy Bradley, but it looks like Bradley is close to finalizing a deal to face WBC/IBF champion Devon Alexander on January 29.

Maidana had this to say to John Jones "I want to rest and eat a couple of barbecues and then start again with everything. I won an important fight, because if you come to fight in Luna Park, you have to do it with someone good. I want my next fight to be against the best. Therefore, I either want Bradley, Khan or whoever."

Lopez-Marquez Rescheduled For November 6

The highly anticipated showdown between WBO featherweight champ Juan Manuel Lopez and Rafael Marquez will take place on November 6 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV and live on Showtime. The bout was initially scheduled to take place September 18, but a thumb injury suffered by Marquez forced the bout to be rescheduled.

Martinez Arrives In Glasgow

Photo: Joel A. Colon / PR Best Boxing Promotions

WBO junior lightweight champ Roman Martinez arrives in Glasgow, Scotland along with the rest of Team Martinez. Martinez is set to defend his title against Ricky Burns this Saturday.

“Today, I’m resting, but I’m going to move later. I’m in good shape, 131 pounds, and I have to rest because of the long travel from Puerto Rico” said Martinez.

The fight week schedule for Martinez consists of a public workout on Tuesday, the final press conference on Wednesday and the weigh-in on Friday.

Pacquiao-Margarito Presser Info, NY & Cowboys Stadium Events Open To The Public

Ten-time world champions Congressman MANNY “PacMan” PACQUIAO and The Tijuana Tornado ANTONIO MARGARITO, their respective trainers FREDDIE ROACH and ROBERT GARCIA, along with Hall of Fame promoter BOB ARUM, will host a news conference luncheon to announce PACQUIAO vs. MARGARITO World Super Welterweight Championship. The news conference, which is open to the public, will be held at the Chelsea Piers – Pier 60 (23rd St. & The Hudson River, New York, NY 10011), This Wednesday! September 1. Media Report Time is 11:30 a.m. ET with the news conference beginning promptly at Noon.

Paid parking is available near the entrance to Chelsea Piers via the southbound lanes of Route 9A, off the West Side Highway, at the entrance opposite 23rd Street. Taxi pick-up and drop-off locations are located at Pier 61 and Pier 60 along the Chelsea Piers Access Roadway.

The U.S. Media Tour, which begins in Los Angeles on Tuesday, will conclude on Friday with a news conference, open to the public, at Cowboys Stadium-East End Zone Platform, beginning at 11:30 a.m.CT. Pacquiao and Margarito are also scheduled to attend Thursday night's preseason game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Miami Dolphins at Cowboys Stadium.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Cowboys Stadium and MP Promotions, PACQUIAO vs. MARGARITO will take place Saturday, November 13 in Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX. The $1.2 billion stadium is the largest, most technologically advanced entertainment venue in the world. Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KOs), of General Santos City, Philippines, and Margarito (38-6, 27 KOs), of Tijuana, México, will be battling for the vacant World Boxing Council super welterweight title. Pacquiao vs. Margarito will be produced and distributed Live on HBO Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

Witherspoon Comes From Behind To Stop Castillo In Seven

Photos by: Tom Briglia / PhotoGraphics Photography

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ — Top American Heavyweight Chazz “The Gentleman” Witherspoon came off his longest lay off and struggled through the first six rounds of his scheduled ten round bout with Livin Castillo only to come out for round seven and score a thrilling knockout that headlined a great night a great night of boxing that was promoted by Mike Brestle’s Spartan Fight Promotions at the Trump Taj Mahal Grand Ballroom.

After a pretty even first round, Castillo began to land numerous long left hands to bot the body and head and it looked like Witherspoon was a bit befuddled.

Witherspoon came out in round seven and went for broke and succeeded as he landed a barrage of punches that sent Castillo to the Canvas. Castillo rose to his feet only to be battered all over the ring by an unrelenting flurry by Witherspoon and finally referee Earl Brown stopped the fight at 2:21 of round seven.

It was later found out that Castillo was leading 58-56; 58-56 and 59-55 on all three judges score cards

“It felt good to be back”, said Witherspoon, who was making his first ring appearance after an almost nine month layoff since a stoppage loss to world ranked Tony Thompson at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.

“My plan was to box and get the ring rust off and then I took him out when my coach (trainer Wade Hinnant) told me it was time to get him out of there.

Witherspoon is now 27-2 with nineteen knockouts.

The co-feature saw Farah Ennis remain undefeated as he used a vicious body assault to take out late replacement Reggie Pena in round three of a scheduled eight round Super Middleweight bout.

In a battle of veterans, former world title challenger Walter Estrada scored a six round split decision over Jose Reyes.

Three local favorites remained undefeated as Isiah Seldon scored his first knockout when he took out Jason Johns in round one of a scheduled four round Super Middleweight bout.

Atlantic City Light Heavyweight Lavarn “Baby Bowe” Harvell dropped eighteen year old Nathan Bedwell three times en route to a four round unanimous decision.

Eugene Soto recovered from two first round knockdowns to gain a controversial majority decision over Maurice Williams in a four round Super Middleweight bout

Spartan Fight Promotions will be back this fall with another great night of boxing. Details to be announced shortly

This great night of action will be available on www.gofightlive.tv

FULL RESULTS

10 Rounds – Heavyweights—Chazz Witherspoon (27-2, 19 KO’s) 231 lbs of Philadelphia, PA TKO 7 (2:21) over Livin Castillo (16-9) 212 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ

8 Rounds—Super Middleweights—Farah Ennis (16-0, 10 KO’s) 173 lbs of Philadelphia, PA TKO 3 (1:56) over Reggie Pena (6-4) 178 lbs of Ocala, FL

6 Rounds—Lightweights—Walter Estrada (37-13-1) 134 lbs of Miami, FL SPL DEC (scores 58-55-; 57-56 & 56-57) over Jose Reyes (23-8) 138 lbs of Vineland, NJ

4 rounds—Light Heavyweights—Lavarn Harvell (6-0) 170 ½ lbs of Atlantic City, NJ U DEC (scores 40-33 on all cards) over Nathan Bedwell (2-4) 169 lbs of Jackson, TN

4 Rounds—Super Middleweight—Isiah Seldon (2-0, 1 KO)160 ½ lbs of Atlantic City, NJ TKO 1 (2:57) Jason Johns (0-3) 164 lbs of Danville, VA

4 Rounds—Super Middleweights—Eugene Soto (3-0) 163 ½ lbs of Atlantic City, NJ Maj DEC (scores were 38-37; 37-36 and 37-37) over Maurice Williams (1-6) 164 lbs of Camden, NJ

Martinez Off To Glasgow

Photo: Jose A. Colon / PR Best Boxing Promotions

WBO junior lightweight champ Roman Martinez poses before departing for Glasgow, Scotland ahead of his title defense against Ricky Burns this Saturday, September 4.

Foreman Welcomes New Addition To Family

Yuri Foreman and wife Leyla welcomed a new addition to their family when their new baby boy was born at Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, NY. The healthy baby boy weighed in at 6pds 12oz. Foreman is expectedly thrilled with his new son and plans to make his return to the ring.

“I am a new Dad, which is such an amazing experience. There is nothing like this. I am in awe,” Yuri said.

“I have been at the gym doing upper body work, but soon I will begin running to see where I am at. Meanwhile, I will give a lot of attention to my wife and our new baby,”

New Opponent For Fury

Tyson Fury will now face Donnell Holmes (32-1 28KOs) on the big September 10 card at York Hall in London. Fury was initially scheduled to face Jason Gavern, but he has since withdrawn. The bout will be televised as part of Showtime's ShoBox series.

Kassim Ouma Documentary To Premiere On Sundance

Many boxing fans have heard the harrowing tale of Kassim Ouma’s troubled history as a former child-soldier and can now view the film that chronicles his story.

The award-winning documentary feature “Kassim the Dream” makes its’ broadcast premiere on Monday night at 8 PM on the Sundance Channel.

A former world junior-middleweight boxing champion, 31-year-old Kassim "The Dream" Ouma outwardly exudes good cheer and charm in filmmaker Kief Davidson's documentary profile.

However, Kassim's dark past is unlike that of any other boxing star.

At age six, Ouma was kidnapped by Ugandan rebel soldiers and forced into duty as a child soldier during a bloody civil war.

Now, after a decade in exile in America, Kassim undertakes a painful six-day journey home to Uganda, where he admits that as a child he committed both torture and murder.

Academy Award winning actor Forest Whitaker was the Executive Producer for the Ouma film, which picked up a number of major international awards.

It was one of five nominations for the Best Documentary Feature Award by the International Documentary Association in 2008. It won the AFI Fest Audience and Best Documentary awards, the Silverdocs American Film Market Award, received the Doc U Award at the world’s leading documentary festival in Amsterdam, amongst other honors.

The film has been shown in theaters around the world and on Sundance Selects series on pay-per-view last winter.

Additional information and a film trailer are available at the KassimTheDream.com website.

Sturm-Lorenzo Presser

Photo: G. Uebe/ARENA

WBA Super Champion Felix Sturm and Giovanni Lorenzo were face to face for the first time at today’s press conference for their middleweight title fight this Saturday (Sept. 4) in Cologne, Germany.

"There’s no doubt about me winning the fight and becoming champion of the world", said Lorenzo who showed up in a jersey of local soccer team Borussia Mönchengladbach; Gladbach had won a clash with local rivals Bayer Leverkusen with 6-3 on Sunday afternoon. "The team of Gladbach inspired me. They were the underdogs, they played in front of Leverkusen’s home crowd and they scored a very convincing and impressing win. That’s exactly what I will do next Saturday. Gladbach scored 6 goals – I will score 6 knockdowns. When I heard that Sturm is from Leverkusen like yesterday’s losers things were very clear to me: I will be the new champion."

Felix Sturm wasn’t too impressed with Lorenzo running his mouth: "Talk is cheap. I heard he said that he will stop me within five or six rounds. We will see who will be on the receiving end on Saturday. All I can say is that I am very well prepared and all fired up for this fight. It’s a new situation for me because this is the first show I am doing all by myself. Of course, I have a phantastic team; everybody on Team Sturm has been doing a great job organizing this huge event. I promise all fans that this Saturday will set new standards for boxing and entertainment in Germany."

Maidana: "Amir Khan Is Next"

Interim WBA junior welterweight champ Marcos Maidana can now look forward to a highly anticipated showdown against WBA champ Amir Khan. Maidana, who took care of business Saturday night by defeating DeMarcus Corley via unanimous decision, said "Amir Khan is next" when asked about his next bout. Plans are to stage the bout December 11, should both sides come to an agreement.

During his bout against Corley, Maidana said he was worried that a cut he suffered could effect his performance and jeopardize the Khan bout.

"Corley never hurt me with any of his punches. I worried about the cut. It was the first time that I was ever cut in my career. It complicated things and I was very nervous. I dedicate this fight for everyone in Argentina and my family," said Maidana.

Calderon Plans To Bounce Back

Following the first loss as a prize fighter at the hands of Giovanni Segura on Saturday night, Ivan Calderon says he plans to take some time off, but will be back in 2011. A plush punch to the liver by Segura ended the night for Calderon. Calderon had the following to say after the bout.

"I fought a fight that was not mine but I lost to warrior. I wanted to stand a bit to fight toe to toe, but he planted a good shot to the liver and I could not recover. Segura has no style, but he has a big heart, fought like a warrior. I think I deserve another chance. I'll relax and return next year. One falls but he has to raise himself up, just like Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto who fell but got up," said Calderon.

Meza Clay Victorious

Monty Meza Clay (29-3 20KOs) scored a third round TKO over Allen Litzau (13-6 7KOs) Saturday night at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh, PA.

Derrick Gainer SD(6) Angel Hernandez
Lee McGinnis TKO(2) Johnnie Davis


Spivey Decisions Martinez

Dorin Spivey (38-6 29KOs) earned a ten round unanimous decision over Leo Martinez (15-14 7KOs) Saturday night at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virginia Beach, VA.

Meachor Major TKO(3) Jamar Saunders
Frankie Filippone UD(6) Willie Williams
Maurice Byarm TKO(3) Ramon Hayes
Antwain Britt KO(1) Antonio King
Kenneth Moody TKO(3) Omar Sims

Douglas Stops Urban

Jason Douglas (8-2 4KOs) scored a seventh round TKO over Brent Urban (6-3-1 4KOs) Saturday at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington. Time was 1:47.

Darlington Agha TKO(5) Nelson Zepeda
Francisco Reyes UD(6) Heder Rivas
Vincent Thompson UD(5) Villi Bloomfield
Sylvester Borren UD(4) Freddie Miller

Maidana Victorious, Results From Argentina

Interim WBA junior welterweight champ Marcos Maidana (29-1 27KOs) successfully retained his title with a twelve round unanimous decision over DeMarcus Corley (37-14-1 22KOs) Saturday night at Estadio Luna Park in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Scores were 117-110, 115-112, 116-110.

In a bout for the WBC Latino junior welterweight title, Guillermo de Jesus Paz (18-21-3 1KO) earned a ten round split decision victory over Claudio Alfredo Olmedo.

Cesar Rene Cuenca UD(8) Mauricio Ariel Pereira
Martin Antonio Coggi TKO(2) Juan Federico Abrego
Daniel Alejandro Sanabria PTS(4) Patricio Valentin Pitto

Segura KOs Calderon, Results From Puerto Rico

Giovanni Segura (25-1-1 21KOs) became the unified WBO/WBA junior flyweight champ by knocking out previously unbeaten Ivan Calderon (34-1-1 6KOs) in the eighth round Saturday night at the Coliseo Mario 'Quijote' Morales in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. Time was 1:34.

Alex De Jesus (20-1 13KOs) defeated Jose Angel Roman (11-26-5 5KOs) via a six round decision.
 
Jose A. Gonzalez (12-0 8KOs) stopped Hector Marengo (5-1-4 3KOs) inside of six rounds. Time was 1:19.

McJoe Arroyo UD(6) Sigfredo Medina
McWilliams Arroyo UD(6) Jiovanne Fuentes

Lundy Defeats Lowther, Results From Montreal

Hank Lundy (19-1-1 10KOs), while taking the fight on short notice, earned a ten round unanimous decision over Omri Lowther (14-2 10KOs) Saturday night at the Metropolis in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Scores were 100-90, 98-92, 100-90.

Middleweight Kevin Bizier (12-0 8KOs) retired Leonardo Rojas (8-11-3 2KOs) after three rounds.

Nicholson Poulard TKO(3) Alfredo Contreras
Ahmad Cheikho TKO(1) Jonathan Leveille
Samuel Vargas SD(4) Michael Springer
Patrick Tessier UD(4) Francis Lafreniere

Witherspoon Stops Castillo, Results From Atlantic City

Chazz Witherspoon (27-2 19KOs) scored a seventh round TKO over Livin Castillo (16-9 10KOs) Saturday night at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, NJ. Time was 2:21.

Farah Ennis (16-0 10KOs) remained unbeaten with a third round TKO over Reggie Pena (6-4 1KO). Time was 1:56.

Walter Estrada SD(6) Jose Reyes
Lavarn Harvell UD(4) Nathan Bedwell
Eugene Soto MD(4) Maurice Williams
Isiah Seldon TKO(1) Jason Johns

Sydorenko Decision Matumla

Volodymyr Sydorenko (22-2-2 7KOs) claimed the vacant WBC International Silver super flyweight title with a twelve round unanimous decision over Mbwana Matumla (19-5 11KOs) Saturday at Independence Square in Kiev, Ukraine.

Dmytro Kucher UD(8) Joey Vegas

Bautista Stops Barrera, Melindo Scores KO

Rey Bautista (29-2 22KOs) scored a fourth round TKO over Alejandro Barrera (20-4 13KOs) Saturday at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel in Cebu City, Philippines. A cut suffered by Barrera from a punch would end the bout at the 1:14 mark.

Flyweight Milan Melindo (22-0 7KOs) defeated Jin-Man Jeon (13-4-1 3KOs) via second round KO. Time was 0:43.

Jimrex Jaca KO(1) Pipino Cuevas Jr.
Florante Condes UD(8) Sofyan Effendi

Pacquiao-Margarito Ticket Info

Tickets for the November 13 bout between Manny Pacquiao and Antonio Margarito at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX will be priced at $700, $500, $300, $200, $100 and $50. An on sale date, as well as other details, will be announced shortly.

Maidana-Corley Weights

Interim WBA champ Marcos Maidana (138.82lbs) and challenger DeMarcus Corley (137.94) both made weight for their title bout Saturday night in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Weights From Atlantic City


Photo: Tom Briglia / PhotoGraphics Photography

Chazz Witherspoon 231 vs. Livin Castillo 212
Farah Ennis 173 vs. Reggie Pena 178
Jose Reyes 138 vs. Walter Estrada 134
Lavarn Harvell 170.5 vs. Nathan Bedwell 169
Isaiah Seldon 160.5 vs. Jason Johns 164.5
Eugene Soto 163.5 vs. Maurice Williams 164

Venue: Trump Taj Mahal, Atlantic City, New Jersey
Promoter: Spartan Fight Promotions (Mike Brestle)
First Bell: 8pm est
Broacast: www.gofightlive.tv

Rodriguez Defeats Jordan, Results From Dover Downs

Jose Angel Rodriguez (16-2-1 2KOs) earned a twelve round unanimous decision over Russell Jordan (15-6 10KOs) Friday night at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino in Dover, Delaware.

Amir Mansour KO(2) Samuel Brown
Mike Tiberi TKO(1) Ray Cunningham
Anthony Smith DQ(3) Khalil Farah
Ryan Belasco UD(6) Devarise Crayton
Ronica Jeffrey SD(4) Ashleigh Curry
Dan Biddle TKO(2) Lonnie Mabin
Gabriel Pham UD(4) Michael Glenn
Gabriel Morris UD(4) Mike Denby

De Vitis Decisions Nagy

Antonio De Vitis (17-1-1 8KOs) outworked Zsolt Nagy (15-17 7KOs) over eight rounds to earn a unanimous decision Friday at Marino Piccola in Cagliari, Sardegna, Italy.

Adriano Nicchi PTS(6) Gheorghe Danut
Rosario Guglielmino TKO(4) Ferenc Zsalek

Matthysse, Lujan Victorious

Lucas Matthysse (27-0 25KOs) retained his WBO Latino junior welterweight title by scoring three first round knockdowns over Rogelio Castaneda Jr. (26-16-3 8KOs) on his way to a first round KO victory  Friday night at Club Athletico Newell's Old Boys in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina.

In a bout for the WBC Latino welterweight title, Sebastian Andres Lujan(34-5-2 22KOs) scored a sixth round TKO over Emilio Julio (18-6-1 11KOs).

Calderon-Segura Weights


Photo: Jose Perez / PR Best Boxing Promotions

Ivan Calderon 107.8 vs. Giovanni Segura 107.9

Undercard:

Jovanne Fuentes 112.3 vs. Mcwilliams Arroyo 113.3
Héctor Marengo 135 vs. José González 135
Sigfredo Medina 120.5 vs. Mcjoe Arroyo 118.4
José Ángel Román 145.6 vs. Alexander De Jesús 138
Samuel Santana 137.1 vs. Felix Stkitts 137
Christopher Vélez 140.4 vs. José Carlos Lozada 141
Rey Díaz 136.4 vs. Jeffrey Fontánez 132
Edwin Galarza 136 vs. Alexander Vega 134.7

Peter Confident For Bout Against Klitschko

Former heavyweight champ Samuel Peter is anxiously awaiting his opportunity to once again become champ when he faces heavyweight champ Wladimir Klitschko next month. Peter is feeling confident after a successful training camp and promises to be a different fighter on September 11.

“I don’t think Wladimir will be able to stand past four rounds,” Peter said during a media conference call.

"This has been the best,” said Peter. “Everything is kind of the best. I have the best promoter in the world, the best manager, the best coach. The world will see a different Sam Peter on Sept. 11.”

Weights From Puerto Rico

Photo: Promociones Miguel Cotto

Luis Cruz 130 vs. Hevinson Herrera 130

Undercard:

Jayson Vélez 122 vs. Isaac Hidalgo 123
Jesús Rojas 123.7. vs. Angel Paneto 120.a
Jonuel Tapia 155 vs. Giovannie Rodríguez 155
Luis Braña Jr. 119 vs. Eduardo Meléndez 120
Juan Herrera 114 vs. Emanuel Rivera 114
Irvin Hernández 125 vs. Juan G. Cruz 122.5
Alberto Mercado 130 vs. Hipólito Rivera 129

Ortiz-Harris Conference Call Transcript

Monica Sears

Welcome to today's call.  I just want to give a quick rundown of everyone that is joining us today.  We have President of Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya.  On Victor Ortiz's team we have obviously, "Vicious" Victor, his head trainer Danny Garcia and his manager Rolando Arellano.  On Vivian Harris' side we have Vivian, his head coach Delen Parsley, also known as "Blimp," and his manager, Greg Leon.

Without any further ado I'm going to let Oscar give everyone the rundown on this great card we have coming up September 18th.

Oscar de la Hoya     

Thank you very much, Monica.  We are truly excited to be once again presenting the great lineup of fights.  Obviously Saturday, September 18th is a very special day for boxing.  Obviously we've had many events on that weekend celebrating Mexico's Independence Day.  We told that to watching the great Chavez and watching other great Mexican champions.  Also, myself, I fought there on many occasions on this holiday, which has always been very special to me.

We are truly excited to be having two of the top Junior Welterweights fighting each other.  Vivian Harris against Victor Ortiz will be a classic match-up of great styles.  It will be a great fight; you have two warriors who will be fighting each other to see who can come out on top.  I feel this fight can really steal the show come Saturday night, September 18th     

Also on the card we have Shane Mosley against Sergio Mora, which will be the headliner of the event, which obviously will be another great fight and see if Shane Mosley can rebound from a loss he had against Floyd Mayweather, Jr.  Also we have a special treat on the undercard, Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez is fighting against Carlos "Tata" Baldomir, which will be a true test for the young fighter, Saúl "Canelo" Álvarez, who is now gaining a lot of respect in Mexico especially, and really having a huge following in that country.

It is truly my pleasure to really showcase great talent, 200: Celebrate and Dominate will be truly a great event, one to remember, which is sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, AT&T, and DeWalt Tools.  

Without any further ado I would like to introduce to you Delen Parsley who is Vivian Harris' trainer.

Delen Parsley

Well, we've been working for about two and a half months just getting him prepared and getting his body ready.  Vivian is looking really great.  I expect this to be a great fight if Ortiz comes in and does what he's supposed to do.  I know as far as Vivian Harris, he's ready and prepared.  He's worked hard and we still are preparing hard and he's ready to go.  He's ready to go today.

De La Hoya  

Great. It is truly my pleasure to introduce to you a fighter who I've seen fight many times.  His last fight, obviously, was one of those fights where justice wasn't due.  He was, obviously, in the fight fighting an undefeated fighter in Mexico.  Unfortunately it did end prematurely, but like we said "Vicious" Vivian Harris is a fighter who is always game to fight.  He's a fighter who wants to prove to everyone that he still has what it takes to become world champion.  He's in one of those weight classes where a win Saturday night, September 18th against Victor will obviously catapult him back to the picture.

I would like to introduce to you, with a record of 29-4, with 19 knockouts, fighting out of Brooklyn, New York, that is Vivian "Vicious" Harris.

Vivian Harris

Yes, hi, good afternoon.  I would definitely like to thank God for putting me with Golden Boy and thank for Golden Boy for giving me this great opportunity.  I want to thank Victor Ortiz too for taking the fight and his people for taking a fight like this.

I amdefinitely going to on September 18th, let the whole world know Vivian Harris always comes to fight.  On September 18th the one "Vicious" is going to stand up and that's going to be me because I'm very, very determined to stay on top and to go back on top.  That's just my goal.

I don't think there is anyone going to stop me, especially Victor Ortiz.  You know what I mean?  He's a great young fighter coming up, but I think that he has a lot of doubts when it comes to himself.  I don't really think that he's confident when it comes to beating people, getting there, to be where he's supposed to be.

He has a lot of talent, don't get me wrong, but you have to believe in yourself and I definitely don't think he does.  September 18th I'm definitely going to push him to that limit because I'm coming to win, like I always do.

De La Hoya  

Now, I would like to introduce to you a team that really has been doing great things.  They've really been climbing that ladder to get into that world championship once again.  That is the trainer of "Vicious" Victor Ortiz, Danny Garcia.

Danny Garcia          

Hello everybody.  All I've got to say is that we're training hard.  Victor is getting ready for a big fight because he's going to fight his hard fight.  Vivian Harris is a great fighter, experienced fighter.  He's been a former champion.  It's going to be a good fight, so we're getting ready.  We still have three more weeks to go.  He's not ready yet; he's almost ready; he's going to be ready.  It's going to be a good fight, like I said.  I think we're going to beat Vivian Harris.

De La Hoya  

Thank you, thank you very much.  He is currently ranked first by the WBA, WBO, and the IBF at Junior Welterweight.  As you saw he halted Antonio Diaz in seven rounds.  In his last fight he pitched a shut-out in ten rounds over the game and experienced champion Nate Campbell, May 15th.

He's a fighter who obviously comes to fight and has heart and desire and dedication.  This is one fighter that when he steps in that ring he knows he's in a tough fight.  He knows he's in with a serious opponent and that's what really pushes him to really excel in what he does.

I would like to introduce to you from Garden City, Kansas, but now he resides in Ventura, California, with a record of 27-2, and 21 knockouts, "Vicious" Victor Ortiz.

Victor Ortiz  

Hey, thank you, Oscar.  First I would like to say thank you to everyone for attending this press conference call today, and Vivian Harris for giving me the opportunity to fight against a great world champion as himself.

I'm just very prepared right now.  I listen to my coaches, and as far as that goes I'm here to win.  I know Vivian is trying to stop me.  He just told me right now that he's going to keep me from reaching my goals.  I seem to disagree with that, but as far as that goes I'm sure we're in for a good fight because he's a great world champion for a reason, and I'm number one for a reason as well.  I'll be there September 18th and we'll have a nice little dance.

Parley

So one "Vicious" must go.

Ortiz 

One "Vicious" must go?  Matter of fact-

Harris

One "Vicious" must go.

Ortiz 

Matter of fact, I'm going to let him keep the name "Vicious" and then after I'll just take it.

Harris

We're going to do that anyway.  We're not listening to anything.  You're not letting us keep anything; we worked hard for this one.  We're going to earn and show you who "Vicious" really is.

Ortiz 

That's a good battle we're going to have, huh?

Q       

Victor Ortiz, what do you think when you hear Vivian Harris say that you're talented, but that you don't have confidence in yourself?

Ortiz 

I kind of find that a little funny, but to each his own.  Everyone has their own opinion, but I'm comfortable with me and I know what I'm capable of doing.

Q       

Vivian, I know you're a former world champion.  I know you're a terrific fighter.  Do you look at this fight as one that you have to have if you are going to get another shot at another title?

Harris

Definitely.  The kid is ranked number one, they put him at number one.  I don't think he earned it, but they put him there.  So I definitely think, yes, if he's there I need a win over him to get where I need to go.  Like I said, I'm going to say it now, and I'm going to say it at the fight, he doesn't believe in himself.

If people believe in him more than he believes in himself- And I believe in him when he fights other guys, because he is a very good fighter.  He just doesn't believe in himself.  He doesn't have the courage.  That's my goal and I know that, and he knows that.  On September 18th, we're going to see, you know what I mean?

Q       

Oscar, as a former fighter yourself and a six-time world champion that whole thing, do you kind of understand what these two gentlemen might be feeling right now as far as needing a victory.  Vivian is 32, and not that that's old, but that's at the age where people start to wonder if you still have enough left.  Victor had the one loss to Maidana that he took some heat for.  It seems to me like this is almost a must victory for both guys if they want to continue on to that championship fight.  Do you kind of understand what they must be feeling?

De La Hoya  

Absolutely, look, I obviously can't speak for them, but first of all 32 is the new 22 today.

Harris

And 22 is the new 32.

De La Hoya  

When you have two fighters who are of that caliber facing each other, yes, this is another step for both fighters.  Victor Ortiz, who has already had great wins after a little set back, especially against Nate Campbell it was obviously a big confidence booster.  It was a great fight; he pitched a near shut-out against a great fighter in Campbell.  This fight here for him I'm sure is another step toward that world championship title he wants to get.

The same for the other "Vicious", Vivian Harris, who again wants to get to a world title.  I wouldn't call it do or die, but it's a fight that they really want.  It's a fight that they have to go out there and really perform.  This is going to be a great showing.

Q       

I have one more question for you, Oscar, if I may.  Looking up and down the lineup of this card it seems to me there is a possibility that this particular fight could steal the show as far as sheer excitement and-

De La Hoya  

I definitely have to agree with that.  I definitely have to agree with that because of styles, because of how much they want it, because of what both "Vicious'" have gone through and because of what they have to go through to get to the world title.  This is one of these fights where it can be a classic.  It's obviously up to them.

Q       

Vivian, one of the questions that was asked previously was about whether or not you thought you needed to win this fight to get into position to get another opportunity to fight for one of the titles.  I'd take it a step further and wonder with some of the unfortunate situations, whether it was a no contest with the head butt, or what happened with the Matthysse fight, do you view the fight not only as a must win in terms of getting another title fight, but really as a must win to really extend your career, period?

Harris
I don't look at a fight- I look at a fight as to what type of fighter I'm fighting.  I'm not thinking about a world title; I'm not thinking about nothing.  I'm thinking about going in there and getting a victory.  When I get the victory, I lead to Golden Boy to bring whatever they have to Vivian Harris.  That's just my goal.  My goal is getting the victory.  I'm not thinking about nothing.

I was champion of the world already.  My goal is just to win the fight, just keep winning my fights and wherever it leads me, it leads me.  My goal is just winning the fights.  That's my goal; just win the fight and whatever they have in store for me after that, that's what it will be.  My goal is to win the fight September 18th, that's what I'm going to do.

Q       

Could you tell me your thoughts about after the fight with Matthysse where the fight was stopped-and I have to tell you seeing it was maybe the worst stoppage I've ever seen in my career of covering boxing as well as in years of just watching as a fan-how disappointed were you that when Golden Boy tried to make a rematch with Matthysse that their side just had no interest and refused to do that based on what had happened in that fight?

Harris

Yes, because when I went into the fight, I know they took the fight because they thought Vivian Harris was finished, Vivian Harris was done.  They took the fight; they thought it would be like it would be a knockout in the first two or three rounds.  They saw what was happening like we were fighting, his eyes were closed, and they decided that he's got six more rounds to go, why let this fight continue?  Lets stop this fight.  The people, the referees were all involved in it, but you don't ever, ever give up a match.

Like Oscar just said when the guy asked him about how you feel, how the two of us feel.  He said the right thing; he can't answer that question because he does not know how me or Victor feel right now going into this fight.  He does not know what we're thinking; how we're training, the extra effort we've put in towards it.  Like I said, come September 18th it's going to be a good fight.

Q       

Victor, I heard about what Vivian has been saying about the determination to win this fight and just basically focusing on that entirely.  I think you're a pretty focused guy yourself, but I'm wondering when you look at the landscape of your weight class, it's one of the hottest divisions in the sport.  They're trying to make the Bradley-Alexander fight, the possibility of Khan fighting Maidana who you had a fight with.  Do you view this as sort of if you can win the fight against Harris, an established name, a former champion, that you will then in your next fight be set up for one of those really big fights in the weight class?

Ortiz 

That definitely would be a good thing to look at, but as of right now I'm looking at just Vivian.  Vivian is a great fighter.  He's a world champion for a reason and I can't look past him.  He's definitely dangerous.

Q       

How do you go about fighting an experienced guy like that?  When you fought Nate Campbell in May, for whatever reason it was, Nate didn't really throw a lot of punches.  Vivian seems to be a bit more active to me when he goes into a fight.  What are your thoughts about his activity level compared to what you faced with Campbell who was surprisingly non-active in that fight?

Ortiz 

Everyone has a game plan until they get hit.

Parsley          

I'm happy you know that.  I told you the kid was a smart kid.  The kid is not a stupid kid.

Q       

What do you think about the preparation of Victor for Vivian Harris?

De La Hoya

We feel very confident that obviously whoever wins this fight is going to move on to maybe going into a world championship fight.  We have a lot of confidence in Victor.  We know he's very talented.  We know that we believe in him.

We feel that no fight is easy.  We feel that every fight is a difficult fight and you never know what's going to happen.  Whatever happens in the ring is up to the fighters.  As a promoter all we can do is just support them 100 percent.

Q       

Danny, what do you think about the fight that Victor fought at STAPLES Center last time?

Garcia

The past is in the past.  The fight with Maidana is over and we're concentrated on Vivian Harris and we aren't going to lose this fight.  We'll be back in the hunt for a world title again.

Q       

Vivian, you obviously are questioning, you said his courage and his confidence, talking about Victor Ortiz.  Can you specifically point to fights where you watched Victor, you see that his courage should be questioned and your questioning his courage is valid?

Harris

I watch all his fights.  Even his last fight with Nate Campbell; I watched his fight and Nate Campbell hit him when he was on the ropes and he just winked up his eyes like, Oh my God.  This thing is not even about the Maidana fight and stuff like that.  That's done, like his trainer said that's the past.  Like I said before, he has a good following, good people that are telling him good stuff, but sometimes in the ring you need more than that.

That's just something I know.  I know once you do one thing before you're going to do it again.  I'm a fighter and I know digging deep in there; sometimes you're in the ring and you feel like you're going to die.  You've just got to dig deep.  I don't think he has that kind of mental state.  He's doesn't have that kind of mental right now.

It really doesn't matter to me, my goal is just come in and execute.  I'm a different fighter than Maidana.  I hit harder than Maidana.  I'm a different fighter than Nate Campbell.  I'm a far different fighter than Nate Campbell and the last two kids that he fought.  I'm a sharp shooter.  My sharp shooting is definitely going to land.  I'm not worrying about it.  I know once I land, he's got to question himself.  I hope he doesn't get flashbacks.

Q       

Victor, do you have a response to that?  I know you said something earlier; I don't know if you were joking or what do you have to say-?

Ortiz 

I'll see you Saturday, September 18th.

Harris

Victor, make sure we don't get a head butt, because you might quit with a head butt.

Ortiz 

Make sure you don't head butt me because you don't want to ....

Arellano       

Listen guys, I'd like to make a comment on behalf of Victor Ortiz.  You know what, we're the type of team that doesn't focus on another fighter's weakness.  We know Vivian Harris.  We're on a track for a world championship.  We know that Vivian Harris is a wall that we need to go through.  We know Vivian Harris 29 fights, 19 by knockout.  We know that Vivian Harris basically has a lot to come back because of what happened in Mexico.  He has something to prove.  We give him nothing but the utmost respect and stuff like that, okay?

We're not here, and we're not going to talk about his weaknesses because his weaknesses by the mere fact that they're weaknesses will be exposed.  What we're here to do is to figure out and how to conquer Vivian Harris and all his positive attributes.

We are a positive team here.  We're not going to say Vivian Harris is older, that he lost his last fight, bullshit.  We're expecting a six foot six tall on that day and we're going to climb it, plain and simple.

Harris

That's right.  That's why it's going to be a good fight.  Ortiz is ready and he's good.  It's going to be a good fight. That's what his team believes.  He has to believe that to get a victory.  You have to believe that.  It's not what you believe ....  He has to believe that.

Arellano       

... and unleash it on you on September the 18th.

Harris

He has to believe it.  Once he doesn't believe it, it's not happening.  Trust me, he has to believe it.  He has to believe.  He has to believe it.  It's got to come from his heart, from his head.  He has to believe it, he does not believe that.  You're talking because I know he don't believe that.  He doesn't believe that.

Arellano       

We're going to be ready for you guys.

Harris

Not you all, he has to be ready.  Get him ready.

Arellano       

Victor is going to be ready.  Victor is going to beat Vivian Harris.

Harris

Now you're talking the right stuff.  He has to be ready.

Sears

Vivian, Rolando - to your corners!...Are you finished with your question?

Q       

Oscar, in relation to Ortiz and Vivian; the winner of the fight you addressed that a little bit that they're in the mix.  Can you tell us where Marquez- Katsidis is, where Khan-Maidana is, and where these two guys fit in relation to those fights?

De La Hoya  

Obviously yes.  A win September 18th there is no doubt that both fighters can be in the mix because they belong in the mix.  There's no doubt.  They're both fighters who have the experience, who have the talent, who have what it takes to fight anybody.  A win September 18th obviously makes it that much more special to fight the top 140 pounders that they're talking about, like the Amir Khans and the guys who are shooting to be the best at 140.  It's a matter of just saving a great performance and winning September 18th and then it's like every fighter, you win and you see bigger and better things.  That's just the way it goes.

This fight is going to be a very special fight.  As you can hear both fighters are confident; both fighters are ready to go and we feel September 18th will be a very special night for boxing.

Harris

I don't know, Oscar, only one fighter is confident.

Arellano       

Oh, look it here, we have a mind reader.

De La Hoya  

Thank you very much for being on the call.  As you see it's going to be a great fight, there is no doubt about it.  September 18th will be a big celebration.  It's going to be a full house, I feel confident in that.  We're looking forward to a great night of boxing September 18th.  Thank you.

Arellano       

Train hard, Vivian, because you're going to need it, baby.

Diaconu vs Sheika October 15

Light heavyweights Adrian Diaconu (26-2 15KOs) and Omar Sheika (30-9 21KOs) will square off October 15 at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The bout will take place on the undercard to the IBF super middleweight title bout between current champ Lucian Bute and Jesse Brinkley. 

Kimbo Slice To Try Boxing

As James Toney makes the transition from boxing to MMA, Kimbo Slice will be leaving the MMA scene for boxing. Slice, who rose to fame via videos of his backyard brawls, is confident he can make his mark in the heavyweight division and enjoy success in the sweet science.

"I feel like a baby all over again," Slice told ESPNNewYork.com. "I'm thinking about this at night. I'm gonna be a problem in the heavyweight division. I'm going to be coming in with a bad demeanor. I want to see what it's like to break some ribs, break a jaw with one punch."

Slice is on the verge of signing a promotional contract with Gary Shaw, who believes it's not too late for Slice to try boxing.

"He could easily be at the same level as guys the Klitschkos have been fighting," said Shaw. "Maybe I'm wrong, maybe he's coming to boxing too late, but I don't think so. He's not a beaten-up athlete. He's a natural, with that bob and weave like Mike Tyson."

Witherspoon Set For Return Saturday Night

Chazz Witherspoon (26-2 18KOs) is set to return to the ring Saturday night when he battles Livin Castillo (16-8 10KOs) in a ten round bout at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, NJ. Witherspoon, who has not fought since 12/5/09 (TKO loss to Tony Thompson), will look to get back on track establish himself as a top contender.

Lopez-Marquez Most Likely To Take Place In November

The bout between WBO featherweight champ Juan Manuel Lopez and Rafael Marquez will most likely be rescheduled for sometime in November. It was thought the bout would be pushed back to late October following a thumb injury suffered by Marquez, but staging the bout in November will gave Marquez ample to time to fully recover and properly train. Although he is unable to use his hand, Marquez is still training hard for Lopez.

Foster vs Kirakosyan Headlines October 2 Card At Bolton Arena

STEVE FOSTER JNR will launch Hatton Promotions first live televised show of the new season in a stunning European super-featherweight championship fight.

The Salford ring ace will challenge Russian knockout artist Leva Kirakosyan (33-5) for his title at Bolton Arena on Saturday October 2.

Foster Jnr, 29, has been chasing another major fight since narrowly losing a WBO world title fight against Alex Arthur in December 2007

Hatton Promotions latest big bill will be televised by Sky Sports and CEO Gareth Williams said: “It is a great fight to start the new season.

“British boxers have been dominant at European title level over the last couple of years and I believe Steve can become Hatton Promotions latest champion despite Kirakosyan’s reputation.”

Ricky Hatton added: “I have to pinch myself that I am now promoting boxers like Steve who has been a friend of mine for years.

“He has boxed on bills with me before and here I am now promoting and hoping to make him a world champion.”

Since joining Hatton Promotions at the start of this year, former WBU featherweight champion, Foster Jnr (27-2-1) had kept busy with three points wins.

Foster Jnr: “This is a fantastic opportunity, but I believe I have what it takes to come through and move on to world title level.”

Kirakosyan, 36, is a world class puncher with 23 of his wins coming inside the distance.

He won the title in February in Stoke when he stopped Scott Lawton in the third round, and in a July defence beat Francisco Nohales in the second round.

Hatton Promotions matchmaker Richard Poxon has put together a top class undercard featuring some the best young fighters in British boxing.

In a final eliminator for Stuey Hall’s British bantamweight title unbeaten St Helens fighter Craig Lyon will tackle Sheffield’s fighting soldier Ross Burkinshaw.

The undercard features a battery of prospects including Britain’s number one heavyweight prospect Richard Towers, John Fewkes, Adam Etches, Rhys Roberts, and Matty Askin

TICKETS:
 
£30.00 General admission
£50.00 Ringside
£75.00 VIP Ringside

FROM:
The Box Office - 0161 775 7500

or  Ticketmaster - 0844 847 2500

Chisora Willing To Fight Harrison If Haye Won't

British heavyweight champion Derek Chisora says he'll fight Audley Harrison if David Haye is not man enough.
 
Haye and Harrison are bickering in the press ahead of a possible showdown later this year, but Del Boy has told Haye to put up or shut up - or he'll step in.
 
"Make your mind up Haye, because I'll quite easily knock out Harrison if you can't do it," said Chisora.
 
"You are running away from the Klitschko brothers like a thief in the night, if you can't beat a powder-puff like Harrison, you should pack up.
 
"Harrison still hasn't won the British title that he promised to do inside eight fights when he turned pro.
 
"He's now had 27 fights, I've got the British title so if he wants to finally come good on his promise here's his chance.
 
"To be honest, I can't believe he's close to getting a world title shot after needing a lucky punch to beat Michael Sprott.
 
"If he gets in the ring with me, I'll knock him spark out.
 
"The future of British heavyweight boxing is me, not an old man like Harrison."
 
Chisora will defend his British title against Commonwealth champion Sam Sexton on September 18 as part of Frank Warren's Magnificent Seven card at the LG Arena, Birmingham.

Povetkin Plans To Finish Up 2010 Strong

Heavyweight contender Alexander Povetkin plans to finish up 2010 strong by fighting twice before the year ends. Povetkin was to face Wladimir Klitschko next month, but a series of unfortunate events prevented the bout from happening. An opponent for Povetkin's next bout is expected to be announced soon.

Rahimi Stops Azizian

In a bout for the interim PABA middleweight title, Hamid Rahimi (16-0 6KOs) scored a fourth round TKO over Armen Azizian (9-11 1KO) Thursday in Hamburg, Germany. Time was 1:33.

"Fight Night Club" Results

Ronnie Rios (12-0 6KOs) defeated Leivi Brea (18-9-3 10KOs) via fourth round TKO Thursday night at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, CA. Time was 2:59.

Antonio Orozco (8-0 5KOs) remained unbeaten with a six round unanimous decision over Humberto Tapia (15-15-1 8KOs). Scores were 60-54 all around.

In his pro debut, Salvador Rios (1-0 1KO) scored a second round TKO over Stephen Rubalcava (0-2). Time was 1:35.

Bastie Samir (4-0 4KOs) stopped Jacob Alvarez (0-2) at the 2:37 of round one. Alvarez was down via a right and was able to get back up. However, referee Raul Caiz Sr. deemed him unable to continue and stopped the bout.

Jonathan Bobadilla UD(4) Juan Alfonso Figueroa
Armando Dorantes TKO(2) Sergio Joel De La Torre

Margarito Issues Statement, Thanks State Of Texas

“I want to thank the state of Texas for granting me a boxing license which enables me to continue my passion for the sport of boxing in the United States. I have dedicated my life to giving the fans of the sport entertainment and excitement. On November 13, this great opportunity will ultimately be fulfilled when I battle Manny Pacquiao.”


Texas Approves Boxing License For Margarito

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has approved Antonio Margarito's application for a boxing license. Such a decision paves the way for a bout between Margarito and Manny Pacquiao on November 13 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, TX. A press tour to promote the bout is tentatively scheduled to begin Tuesday in Los Angeles with additional stops in New York (Sept. 1) and Dallas (Sept. 2).

Froch Comments On Kessler's Withdrawl From Super Six Tourney

The unfortunate news earlier this week that WBC super middleweight champ Mikkel Kessler would be forced to withdraw from the Super Six tournament meant former champ Carl Froch will not get his rematch against Kessler, at least not during the tournament. While Froch would have liked to get the opportunity to avenge his loss, he understands Kessler's situation.

"I was hoping to have gotten the rematch with Kessler through the format of the Super Six. But health must come first and having eye problems in the past, I can only sympathize with Kessler's current situation and wish him well," Froch told Livefight.com.

"Kessler is a gent and will be missed by the the fighters and the fans of the Super Six tournament. But I'm sure somewhere down the line, hopefully our paths will cross again as our last fight really captured the public's imagination. But in the meantime I hope he gets his health back to 100% and back on track."

Kessler's withdrawal means the title will become vacant and most likely at stake when Froch meets Arthur Abraham on October 2. However, Froch has mixed emotions about fighting for a title Kessler never truly lost.

"There is talk of my fight now being for the vacant WBC title. While I appreciate being afforded the opportunity to regain the prestigious belt, I wanted to win it back from Mikkel himself. In an ideal world, he hangs onto it and we rumble again when he's good and ready." 

Erik "El Terrible" Morales Will Headline "Mexican Fiesta"

Five-time world champion in three different weight classes, Erik “Terrible” Morales, continues his heralded comeback September 11 headlining the “Mexican Fiesta” pay-per-view show live from Mexico City. Morales (49-6, 34 KOs), rated No. 2 by the World Boxing Council, will also continue a tradition by fighting outdoors in the famous Plaza de Toros bull ring against WBU champion Willie “Hands of Steel” Limond (33-2, 8 KOs) for the vacant WBC Diamond Super Lightweight Championship. It will be the first fight in the historical bullring since 2004 when ring legend Julio Cesar Chavez fought there.

“Mexican Fiesta,” presented by Grupo Empresarial Matiz, is being distributed in the United States by Integrated Sports Media for live viewing at 9 PM/ET – 6 PM/PT on both cable and satellite pay-per-view for a suggested retail price of $29.95.

Morales, who is the last to defeat the great Manny Pacquiao, goes for his 50th career win in the 12-round main event on “Mexican Fiesta” against Limond, of Scotland, in the eighth recorded professional boxing match at Plaza de Toros, which will be set-up to seat 54,000 for “Mexican Fiesta.”

French heavyweight champion Arthur Craven knocked out Jim “Black Diamond” Smith in the first Mexico City bull ring fight nearly 100 years ago, on September 15, 1918. Mick Moran won a pair of bouts there in 1947 and 1948, while International Hall of Famer Raul “Raton” Macias stopped Leo Espinosa in the 10th round of their March 25, 1956 for the NBA World bantamweight title.

In 1989, Jorge “El Maromero” Paez retained his IBF featherweight title via a second-round knockout there of Jose Mario Lopez, and 5-time world featherweight titlist Manuel “Mantecas” Medina put Jose Vegas to sleep in the seventh round on the same card.

The most significant night of boxing at the Plaza de Toros in Mexico City was May 3, 1998, when future Hall of Famer Julio Cesar “J.C.” Chavez and Miguel Angel “Santa Tokyo” Gonzalez fought to a 12-round draw for the WBC lightweight belt. In another key match-up, 47-0 Ricardo “Finito” Lopez – another future Hall of Famer – and 24-0 Nicaraguan Rosendo Alvarez fought to an 8-round technical draw for the WBC & WBA minimumweight crowns. It marked the only blemish on Lopez’ eventual 51-0-1 (38 KOs) career record.

The last show held in the Mexico City bull ring was in 2004 as Chavez won a 10-round decision against former world champion Frankie “The Surgeon” Randall. Also on the same card, Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio defeated Fitz Vanderpool in the opening round for the WBC International light middleweight title and in his eighth pro fight, Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. – son of the aforementioned legend – knocked out Antonio Aquilar in the first round.

On Sept. 11, Morales joins Chavez, Lopez, Macias and Paez as bonafide Mexican boxing icons to have fought in the renowned Mexico City bull ring.

Former WBC Light Flyweight Champion Edgar Sosa (39-6, 23 KOs) meets European flyweight titlist Andrea Sarritzu (34-4-4, 12 KOs), of Italy, in the 12-round co-feature for the WBC International Flyweight Championship on the “Mexican Fiesta” PPV card..

In a female super flyweight battle of champions, WBC titlist Ann Marie “La Guerrera” Torres (21-3-2, 13 KOs), of Mexico, faces WIBF and GBU champion Alesia “The Tigress” Graf (25-1, 9 KOs), of Germany, in a 10-round title bout for the WBC World Cup Super Flyweight Championship.

A pair of 25-year-olds from Mexico City, WBC CABOFE lightweight champ Daniel “Tremendo” Estrada (23-1-1, 19 KOs) and WBC Continental Americas title-holder Rey Sanchez, square-off in a 12-round match for the WBC Silver Lightweight Championship.

WBC Youth Lightweight champion Ramon “Nino de Oro” Ayala (18-1-1, 8 KOs), a 21-year-old Mexico protégé of another Mexican fighting icon, Marco Antonio Barrera, defends his crown against Panamanian gatekeeper Armando “El Policia” Cordova, former NABA super featherweight champion, in a 10-rounder.

Maidana Responds To Khan

In response to Amir Khan’s comments stating that Marcos Maidana and his team are overpricing a possible fight between them next December 11, Maidana has this to say:

“I’m focused 100% in my fight next Saturday against Demarcus Corley at the moment. But I still have some time to take a look at the news, so yesterday I’ read yet another lie from Amir Khan on the news and here is my answer. Khan is saying that we are overpricing the fight which is completely false since we didn’t even start any negotiations with Golden Boy Promotions, whatsoever. I want the fight, that’s it. But we never discussed any money figures for that bout to happen December 11?, Maidana said.

“Khan, the king of liars, is at it once again when it comes to talk about fighting me. He is trying to make boxing fans believe that I’m overpricing myself when in reality that is an excuse from Khan not to face me,” Maidana added.

Maidana-Corley Officials Named

WBA official have been named for this Saturday's fight between WBA interim junior welterweight world champion Marcos Maidana (28-1, 27 KOs) and WBO junior welterweight world champion De Marcus Corley (37-13-1, 22 KOs). The third man in the ring will be referee Julio Cesar Alvarado, the three judges will be Enrique Portocarrero (Nicaragua), Anibal Andrade (Uruguay) and Victor Simmons (Panama).

Marquez-Lopez To Take Place Oct 23 Or Oct 30

Reports are the clash between WBO featherweight world champion Juan Manuel Lopez and Rafael Marquez could take place on Oct 23 or 30. The fight was orginally to take place September 18 in Las Vegas, but Marquez injured his thumb on his right hand when it got caught in a car door. Check Back with R&D Boxing Blog for further updates.

Golden Boy Promotions Signs Mikael Zewski

LOS ANGELES, August 26 - Host to a new wave of world-class fighters, Canada has become a hotbed of boxing talent and today, Golden Boy Promotions is pleased to announce the signing of their first Canadian-born boxer, unbeaten junior middleweight prospect Mikael Zewski (4-0, 3 KO's).

"This is an exciting day in the history of Golden Boy Promotions as we are pleased to welcome Mikael Zewski, our first Canadian boxer, to the team," said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions. "With packed arenas and some of the game's most exciting fighters emerging from around the country, the Canadian boxing market is exploding. We believe we have one of those exciting fighters in Mikael and we're expecting big things from him in the coming years."

"First, I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions for giving me this huge opportunity," said Zewski. "Today is the most exciting day of my career so far and it means so much to me to sign with Oscar de la Hoya's company because he has always been a role model to me. Plus, I'm the only Canadian fighter on their team and I can't wait to fight and show everybody what I can do. I know I have a bright future in front of me with Golden Boy."

A native of Trois-Rivieres, Quebec, the 21-year-old Zewski first came to the attention of the boxing world during a stellar amateur career that saw him compile a 138-29 record, including a win over Cuban star Carlos Suarez Banteaux. Zewski, who is managed by Cameron Dunkin, is a four-time Canadian National Champion and counts among his accolades a Silver Medal at the 2004 Youth Pan Am Championships, as well as a fifth place finish in the 2009 Senior World Championships.

Trained by his father Jean, Zewski made his professional debut on February 27, 2010, stopping Kevin Kibler in three rounds in Augusta, Georgia. After two victories over Moses Alvizo (TKO2) and Alex DeLeon (W4) respectively, he made a triumphant return to Quebec on May 28, when he stopped 35-fight veteran John Hoffman in a single round at the Pepsi Coliseum in Quebec City.

Now ready to thrill fans on both sides of the border and around the world, Zewski will return to action later this year for his first bout with Golden Boy Promotions on a date and against opponent to be announced shortly.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.twitter.com/MikaelZewski or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.

Lundy Replaces Cherry

Henry "Hank" Lundy (18-1-1 10KOs) will replace Edner Cherry in Saturday night's main event bout at the Metropolis in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Lundy will face Omri Lowther (14-1 10KOs) in the featured bout live on ESPN2.

Hasson vs Speller In Co-Feature Sept. 25

Undefeated super middleweight Dennis “The Assassin” Hasson and fellow-Philadelphian Tommie “Big Poppa” Speller meet in the scheduled eight-round semifinal on Saturday evening, Sept. 25, in the Grand Ballroom at Bally’s Atlantic City.

The scheduled 12-round main event features Teon Kennedy, of Philadelphia, against Alex Becerra, of El Paso, TX, for the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) super bantamweight title.  First of seven bouts begins at 7.30 p.m. 

Hasson, 26, of the Kensington section of Philadelphia, is 10-0, 3 K0s, since turning pro in 2008.  In his last fight July 30 at the South Philly Arena, Hasson ended an eight-month layoff by scoring a six-round decision over Alberto Mercedes, of Milwaukee, WI.

As an amateur, Hasson compiled a 94-16 record and earned a silver medal in the 2006 US National Amateur Championships.

Boxing runs in Hasson’s blood.  Hall-of-Fame light-heavyweight champion Tommy Loughran, also of Philadelphia, was his maternal grand uncle.  In addition, Hasson was born on Tusculum Street, where Rocky Balboa lived in the movie.

Speller, 32, of West Philadelphia, is a tough customer who just came off a hard eight-round points loss to unbeaten Dion Savage on May 1 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The only foe common to both men is Dave Cook, of Butler, PA.  Speller beat Cook by decision earlier this year while Hasson stopped Cook in four rounds in 2008.    

Tickets priced at $50 and $75 are on sale at the offices of Peltz Boxing Promotions (215-765-0922) and also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.com.

Lindsay Ready For Kiilu

Belfast's Martin Lindsay may not be in title action on September 11th but the British featherweight champion faces a dangerous assignment none the less.

Lindsay (16-0-0) takes on former WBF Intercontinental champion David Kiilu in an eight round contest on the undercard of Jason Booth's challenge to IBF champion Steve Molitor.

Kiilu, 37, has won his last three fights by stoppage and despite his age is a dangerous puncher with 19 wins inside the distance.

The Kenyan is no stranger to Britain having suffered defeat at the hands of Nicky Cook, Choi Tseveenpurev and Rendall Munroe back in 2004.

The fight will represent the first time Lindsay has faced a fellow southpaw since turning professional six years ago:

“I haven't boxed any as a professional yet but I have boxed a few in the amateurs.” The 28 year old explained.

“Some of them can be very awkward and can make you look a bit clumsy but at the end of the day you have to expect things like that and you just have to keep your head down and stay focused, try and get your shots off and not be worried about him.”
 
After an impressive performance against the durable and brave Welshman Jamie Arthur back in March, Lindsay finds himself in the mix for a shot at European honours, something that both the fighter and promoter Frank Maloney believe is the next step on the ladder. He explained: “The EBU have me ranked number one so sometime in the not too distant future I want to be challenging for the European title.”

Maloney added: “Steven Smith and John Simpson fight on September 4th and Martin will box the winner of that with the purse bids ordered by BBB of C for next week. After that we will be looking for the European crown.”

The fight is scheduled for eight rounds, which is a shorter distance than the championship norm of twelve, but the Belfast southpaw has pointed out that this will not affect the way in which he is preparing for the fight:

“4-6 rounds is a different sort of fight and you need to prepare different but 8-12 is not so much of a sprint so I wont be changing too much in my way of preparation.
 
“I've already managed about 50 to 60 rounds of sparring since I returned from my holidays at the end of July. We have got a southpaw in the club at the moment for the first time in a long time so it's been good practice.”

The bout will provide chief support to the world title fight between Molitor and Booth which is held at the Rainton Meadows Arena in Sunderland on September 11th.
 
The undercard will feature local boxing talent including Kirk Goodings (4-0), Martin Ward (8-0) and George Watson (8-1-2) as well as debutant Glen Foot.

Olympic Bronze Medallist and super middleweight prospect Tony Jeffries (7-0-1) will also be appearing.

Tickets are available from 08712261508, 0191 564 0202 or www.frankmaloney.com . Ringside £95 or unreserved £35.

Dickinson Wants To Be Beat Groves For A Third Time

TRAVIS DICKINSON wants to sock it to George Groves by scoring a hat-trick against the Commonwealth super-middleweight champion.

The unbeaten Durham fighter beat Groves twice as an amateur, including a Junior ABA final win by first round KO.

Dickinson (6-0) is making great progress as a professional and boxes at Houghton-le-Spring’s Rainton Meadows Arena on Saturday September 11 when he faces Welsh champion Shon Davies (7-6)

The six-rounder takes place on the undercard of Jason Booth’s challenge for Steve Molitor’s IBF super-bantamweight title.

Dickinson, 22, has already mixed in good company and defeated recent Prizefighter winner Patrick Mendys on his debut in March 2009.

He said: “My first aim is a British title and of course another clash against George would be fantastic. He is really going well.”

Travis vividly remembers his 2006 KO of Groves adding: “I can hit with both hands; I dropped him with the right and then when he got up I finished him with the left hook. His legs were all over the place from the first knockdown.

“He wasn’t the most skilful, but he was always strong for his age.”

Promoter Frank Maloney believes a Groves showdown will take place next year and added: “I have a working relationship with Groves’s manager Adam Booth and next year I don’t think it will be hard to make.

“It would be a brutal battle, both of them storm forward and give it their all. Fans and TV viewers will love it.”

In the chief supporting bout to Molitor-Booth, British featherweight champion Martin Lindsay (16-0) boxes a non-title bout.

Local stars in action include Olympic bronze medallist Tony Jeffries (7-0-1), Travis’s older brother Jon Lewis Dickinson (8-1), Trevor Crewe (2-2), Gary Fox (2-0), Kirk Goodings (4-0), Martin Ward (8-0), George Watson (8-1-2), and debutant Glen Foot.

Tickets for the massive night of action are available from 0871 226 1508, 0191 564 0202 or www.frankmaloney.com . VIP Ringside are £95 with the rest a bargain £35. Get yours in advance for a show that looks certain to sell out.

Cotto's Surgery Won't Stand In Way Of Chavez Jr. Fight

Recent surgery on the right shoulder of WBA junior middleweight champ Miguel Cotto should not cause any problems for a proposed bout between Cotto and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in December. Promoter and Top Rank boss Bob Arum says he spoke to Cotto's lawyer and adviser Gabriel Penagaricano and was told Cotto would make a full recovery in time to train fully for the proposed bout. Should all parties come to an agreement, the bout would take place December 4, with New York being the favorite to host the event.

"Fight Night Club" Returns Tonight

Some of boxing’s top young talent will be featured on the Thursday, August 26 edition of the hit series “Fight Night Club,” when Golden Boy Promotions and AEG bring a night of explosive boxing action featuring Ronny Rios from L.A. LIVE’s Club Nokia.

In the evening’s main event, Santa Ana’s Ronny Rios (11-0, 5 KO’s) battles the Dominican Republic’s Leivi Brea (17-8-3, 9 KO’s) in a six-round junior lightweight bout, while in a six round co-featured bout, San Diego junior welterweight Antonio Orozco (7-0, 5 KO’s) will face Culiacan, Mexico’s Humberto Tapia (15-14-1, 8 KO’s).

Also in action at “Fight Night Club” this month will be debuting Santa Ana welterweight Salvador Rios, the brother of Ronny Rios, doing battle with Stephen Rubalcava (0-1) of Exetan, California in a four round contest. Also looking to shine on the card will be Ghana’s undefeated 2008 Olympian Bastie Samir (3-0, 3 KO’s) who will appear in a four round middleweight contest against an opponent to be determined.

Opening up the night of boxing will be two local amateur fights featuring Sergio Nunez of Maywood against Joaquin Chavez of Commerce and Devo Donaldson of Hollywood facing Osman Rivera of Pasadena.

“Fight Night Club”is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and AEG and is sponsored by DeWalt Tools, McDonald’s, Budweiser, Powerade, LightsLeary.com and USTREAM. The series will return to L.A. LIVE’s Club Nokia on September 30, October 28 and November 18. The fights will be broadcast on Fox Sports Net (FSN) and its regional sports network affiliates (check local listings) and streamed live online at www.ustream.com and www.RingTV.com at 8:00 p.m. PT/11:00 p.m. ET. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. PT and the first bell rings at 7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets, priced at $250 (VIP On-Stage Seats, which are limited to only ten per show and allow purchasers to sit ringside on Club Nokia’s stage near VIP’s attending the fight [De La Hoya, Mosley, etc.], receive an autographed boxing glove and provide buyers access to the Club Nokia VIP Room during the event), $100 (VIP Balcony Seats in the first two rows which grant buyers access to the Club Nokia VIP Room during the event), $60 (VIP Balcony Seats which grant buyers access to the Club Nokia VIP Room during the event) and $19.75 (General Admission: Floor Standing Room & Balcony Seats) are on sale now and may be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 online at http://www.ticketmaster.comor through any Ticketmaster outlet or the STAPLES Center box office. Group tickets and full series tickets at a discounted rate are also available by calling 1-877-AEG TICKETS (1-877-234-8425).

“Fight Night Club,” is Golden Boy Promotions’ and AEG’s critically acclaimed live monthly boxing series, that presents boxing in a night club atmosphere, with a DJ, music, great food and a VIP room, as well as a unique setup where the ring is on Club Nokia’s stage with standing room for fans in front of the ring, as well as reserved seating in the balcony. After the boxing action ends, fans are invited to stay to hear great music played by LA’s hottest DJ’s, dance and mingle with the fighters as the venue converts back into a night club.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing.

Cleverly, DeGale Nominated For Award

Frank Warren promoted Nathan Cleverly and James DeGale are among the nominees for this year's prestigious Boxing Writers' Club Young Boxer of the Year award.

Both Cleverly and DeGale will be in action on September 18 at the LG Arena, Birmingham, on Warren's Magnificent Seven card, live on Sky Box Office.

Previous winners have included the likes of Ken Buchanan, Joe Calzaghe, Naseem Hamed, Nigel Benn and Ricky Hatton.

Last year Warren produced yet another winner when Kell Brook lifted the prize, beating Cleverly by a single vote.

The Welshman is favourite this year, having added the European light-heavyweight title to his British and Commonwealth crowns, and working himself into a position where he is now just one fight away from a world title.

"Kell was a deserving winner in 2009," said Cleverly.

"Coming second behind such a good boxer was no disgrace, but I would have loved to have won the award.

"I hope I get enough votes in 2010, because to win would mean a lot to me.

"I'm sure a KO performance in my next fight against Karo Murat in my next fight will help me no end, so that is what I will be aiming for."

DeGale, unbeaten in seven fights as a professional, already has a title, and will face Carl Dilks in an eliminator for the British super-middleweight crown in his next fight.

"Getting nominated is great recognition in itself, so I'm delighted," said DeGale.

"The competition is tough this year, so all I can do is keep on winning and let my fists do the talking."

Tickets for the Magnificent Seven are priced at £40, £50, £80, £150 and £200 and are available from:

LG Arena
0844 338 8000

Ticketmaster
0844 844 0444
www.ticketmaster.co.uk

See Tickets
0871 220 0260
www.seetickets.com

"Windy City Fight Night 12" Set For Sept. 12

CHICAGO, IL - 8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING, has announced details of WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12, a sensational night of action packed, world class professional boxing set for Friday, September 17th at the UIC Pavilion.

Advance tickets for WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12, starting at $31 are available through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com), the UIC Pavilion Box Office (312-413-5740) and the 8 Count Productions’ Office (312-226-5800).

Headlining WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12 is a ten round middleweight shootout between Ireland ’s Andy Lee and Chicago ’s Michael Walker.

Fighting out of Detroit , Michigan under the tutelage of legendary trainer Emanuel Steward, the 26 year old Lee has amassed a record of 22-1-0 with sixteen knockouts since turning professional four years ago.

Lee is currently riding a seven bout winning streak, most recently brutally knocking out James Cook in the fifth round on July 30th in Miami , Oklahoma .

Lee is currently world ranked #10 by the World Boxing Association. This will be Lee’s second bout in Chicago having knocked out James Morrow in the first round on October 2, 2007.

Chicago born and raised Walker has been a staple of the Chicagoland boxing scene for the last six years, compiling a record of 19-4-2 (12KO’s).

Over the course of his professional career Walker has faced numerous world class fighters and contenders including Antwun Echols, Daniel Jacobs, David Lopez, Fernando Guerrero, Dante Craig and Derrick Findley.

The co-main event will feature the return to the ring of Chicago ’s Mexican Warrior, Luciano “EL Michoacano” Perez taking on undefeated Russian junior middleweight Anton “The Pick Hammer” Novikov in a scheduled eight round tilt.

The 32 year old Perez, 17-10-1 (15KO’s), has been a constant presence in the squared circle for the last seven years, always in compelling “blood and guts” battles, having earned the respect of fight fans across the country.

His career reads like a who’s who of world champions and contenders throughout boxing, including; Carlos Baldomir, Mike Jones, Erislandy Lara, Jesus Soto-Karass and Alphonso Gomez.

On March 27, 2009, Perez knocked out cross-town rival Miguel Hernandez in the fifth round at the inaugural WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT at the UIC Pavilion.

Hailing from Kopeysk , Russia , the 22 year old Novikov, 16-0-0 (6KOs). will be fighting for the first time in the United States . On February 28, 2009 Novikov defeated Isaac Selom by ten round unanimous decision to earn the WBC Youth World Middleweight Title, which he has defended twice.

Novikov is coming off an eight round unanimous decision over Eduard Romanchuk on April 24th in Krasnoyarsk , Russian.

In a special attraction six round bout featuring undefeated welterweight prospects Aslanbek Kozaev, 11-0-0 (4KO’s), of Vladikavkaz, Russia and Michigan City, Indiana’s Marcus Thompkins, 5-0-1 (2KO’s).

The 22 year old Kozaev won the WBC Youth Intercontinental Welterweight Title on October 24, 2009, winning a ten round unanimous decision over Prince Doku Jr. in Vladikavkaz. Most recently Kozaev defended the title with a unanimous decision over Dan Nazareno Jr. on April 24th in Krasnoyarsk , Russia .

Thompkins is coming off an action packed six round draw against fellow undefeated Boyd Henley on May 29th at the UIC Pavilion. The draw with Henley was the 25 year old Thompkins’ first bout in Chicago .

Featured on the undercard at WINDY CITY FIGHT NIGHT 12 will be local fan favorites and newcomers; junior welterweight Adrian “EL Tigre ” Granados, 3-0-0 (2KO’s), super middleweight Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez, 1-0-0 (1KO), junior welterweight Antonio Canas, 1-0-0 (1KO) and middleweight Ramon Valenzuela, Jr. 1-0-0 (1KO), all of whom will be featured in separate bouts.

Also on the card will be junior middleweight prospect Donatas Bondarevas, 8-1-1 (2KO’s), of Kaunas, Lithuania and super feather Evgeny Gradovich, 4-0-0 (3KO’s) of Igrim, Russia, both of whom will be in six rounders.

Further information on these bouts will be announced shortly.

Doors on the evening of the event will open at 7pm with the first bell at 8pm. The UIC Pavilion is located at 525 S. Racine , just one block south of the Eisenhower Expressway. For further information, please visit their website at www.uicpavilion.com. The UIC Pavilion is now serving alcohol at all boxing events.

8 Count Productions, HOME OF THE BEST IN CHICAGO BOXING, was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland.

Fighters currently under the 8 Count Productions banner include; super middleweight contender Donovan “DA BOMB” George, junior welterweight prospect Ivan Popoca, light heavyweight Andrzej Fonfara, featherweight Jose Hernandez, welterweight Jaime Herrera and junior middleweight Luciano Perez.

In 2003, Pesoli along with former featherweight contender Mike Garcia, opened JABB Boxing Gym, a 6,000 square foot venue dedicated to the finest Chicagoland boxers of all talent levels.

For more information on 8 Count Productions and JABB Boxing Gym, please visit www.8countproductions.com and www.jabbboxing.com

Remillard Sets Sights On Burgos

Undefeated featherweight Matt “The Sharp Shooter” Remillard is ready for his next fight and has his long range scope set on Juan Carlos Burgos, the World Boxing Council’s #1 rated featherweight. “I’m ready to fight him tomorrow. Burgos is similar to me, we’re both young, all-action fighters and the WBC has mandated that he fight the highest rated available contender. I’m looking at the rankings and numbers 2 through 6 all have fights scheduled” said the Hartford, Connecticut native Remillard.

Remillard, 22-0-0 with thirteen knockouts, is coming off a devastating fourth round stoppage of veteran Carlos Rivera on May 22nd at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT.

Fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Burgos has compiled a record of 25-0-0 (18KO’s) since turning professional in December 2004. Like Remillard, Burgos is only 22 years old.

Continued Remillard, ‘This is a true fan’s fight. I’ve seen Burgos fight and he’s very aggressive, similar to me. It would be a tremendous fight from the opening bell between two of the best young featherweights in the world, and we’re both undefeated.”

“I’m proud to be ranked # 7 by the WBC, but I want to fight for a world title and facing off against Burgos is the path for me.”

Remillard is promoted by TKO Boxing Promotions.

Marquez To Stay At Lightweight, Showdown With Katsidis Looms

WBA/WBO lightweight champ Juan Manuel Marquez will remain at 135lbs for his next bout. After a Wednesday meeting with Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer, it was decided that it would be best for Marquez to remain at lightweight and defend his crown. Schaefer told ESPN.com plans are to match Marquez against WBO interim champ and mandatory challenger Michael Katsidis.

 

"It was clear. He will stay at 135 pounds," Schaefer said.

"So now we are going to try to put together the deal for Marquez and Katsidis. Hell of a fight. Toe to toe. Mano a mano," Schaefer continued. "This is a great fight. I'm excited for the fighters and the fans as well. This is going to be non-stop action. Pound for pound, these are two of the most exciting fighters in boxing."

The date currently being discussed is November 27, which Schaefer is not in favor of due to it being Thanksgiving weekend.

"That's what they gave me," Schaefer said. "I don't love it. It's not the best date, but it's what we have and we'll make it work."

Calderon-Segura Final Presser

Photo: Jose Perez / PR Best Boxing Promotions

WBO junior flyweight champ Ivan Calderon and WBA champ Giovanni Segura pose during the final press conference for their upcoming unification bout Saturday night in Puerto Rico and live on PPV.

"We finally gave the fight that everyone was asking for, a unification. I mean that I am well prepared and we will make our fight and box as I always do, to win the second belt at this weight and unify my title for the first time," said Calderon.

"I came to win that belt to become a double champion. I know I have the punch and the desire to defeat Calderon. I'm going to press the action to beat him by knockout. I'll be very calm and ready for when the bell rings," replied Segura.

Lee vs Rivera On Gamboa-Salido Undercard

Notre Dame Boxing Champion Mike Lee will make his return to action on Saturday, September 11th against Las Vegas native Alex Rivera in a scheduled four round light heavyweight bout in The Pearl Theatre at The Palms Casino and Resort in Las Vegas. 

The Lee/Rivera bout is a feature attraction to the HBO broadcast of “The Battle of Champions” featuring the World Featherweight Championship bout between Cuba’s Yuriorkis Gamboa and Mexican veteran Orlando Salido.

The 23 year old Lee made his pro debut in sparkling fashion on May 29th before a large and enthusiastic hometown crowd at Chicago’s UIC Pavilion, winning a four round shutout unanimous decision over Emmit Woods. The bout was broadcast internationally on Fox Sports Net’s, “Top Rank Live” boxing series.

Among those impressed by his pro debut and looking forward to his Las Vegas bout is longtime Top Rank Inc. matchmaker and recent International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Bruce Trampler.

“Mike Lee is one of those kids who make you proud to be in boxing. A very bright, personable young man outside the ring, and a real fighter inside the ropes. His presence in the pro ranks enhances the sport.”

After graduating from Notre Dame with a finance degree and winning the 2009 Chicago Golden Gloves, Lee decided to turn professional and headed to Houston to train under the tutelage of highly regarded trainer Ronnie Shields.

Shortly after the sensational performance in his pro debut, Lee returned to Houston to train for the Rivera bout. The 29 year old Rivera brings a record of 2-2-0 (2KO’s) into battle.

Said Shields about Lee’s trainng and upcoming bout; “This is a terrific test for Mike. Rivera is a southpaw but Mike has been terrific sparring with southpaws recently and has adjusted very well.”

“For a young fighter it’s important to adapt to different styles and Mike has done very well in the learning process. He’s very anxious to get back in the ring.”

“Mike is a hard worker and a great learner; he wants to be a champion and realizes there are no shortcuts.”

Lee is a Wheaton, Illinois native and a graduate of Benet Academy.

Over a hundred supporters from the Chicagoland area are scheduled to make the trek to Las Vegas for the bout on September 11th.

The Palms Casino and Resort is located at 4321 W. Flamingo Road in Las Vegas. Tickets for “The Battle of Champions” may be purchased by calling 877-530-4269 during business hours or after 5pm at 630-400-6380. The first bell is scheduled for 4:30pm on the night of the event with the televised bouts to begin at 7pm.

“The Battle of Champions” is promoted by Top Rank Incorporated in association with ArenaBox Promotions and Zanfer Promotions.

Prize Fight Signs Welterweight Prospect Jesse Lubash

Prize Fight is proud to announce the signing of undefeated welterweight prospect Jesse "The Future" Lubash to an exclusive promotional contract.

The Pittsburgh native Lubash 13-0 (8 KO's) has already established himself as on of the top young prospects in the world today and Prize Fight believes that it can position him to fight for a World Title in the future.

"Jesse is one of the best kept secrets in boxing. He is already one of the bigger live gate attractions in boxing today as he sells to the masses in Pittsburgh. On top of that he can fight at a world class level in a hot welterweight division", said Brian Young of Prize Fight.

Lubash, 25, is gifted with power in both hands and is a very skilled defensive fighter as well.
 
Prize Fight aims to showcase Lubash on November 27th from the Monroeville Convention Center in Monroeville, PA.

"I look forward to fighting back at home in Pittsburgh and in front of my fans,” stated a focused Lubash. “I feel like that with the addition of Prize Fight, I have the right team in place to achieve my goals in boxing. The obvious goal is a world title. It would mean everything to me to be able to bring a world title back to Pittsburgh.”

Lubash is no stranger to intense competition as he competed as collegiate hockey player at Duquesne University where he is set to graduate with a business degree next semester.
 
Jesse Lubash joins the Prize Fight family and becomes the newest member of a stable that includes some of the hottest prospects in the boxing world today, which includes: #2 world ranked middleweight Fernando Guerrero; world ranked welterweight phenom Shawn Porter; lightweight prospect Ty Barnett; undefeated middleweight Dominic Wade; featherweight Eric Hunter, and more.

For more information on Jesse Lubash or any other fighter from the Prize Fight stable please visit www.prizefightboxing.org.

Singyu KOs Rafols, Claims WBO Youth Title

Pungluang Sor Singyu (29-1 19KOs) needed only one round to defeat Joel Rafols (11-8-2 2KOs) and claim the WBO Youth bantamweight title Wednesday at Western University Bangkok Campus in Pathum Thani, Thailand. Time was 2:14.

Simakov Defeats Vychkin

Light heavyweight Roman Simakov (13-1-1 8KOs) scored a sixth round TKO over Artem Vychkin (8-27 2KOs) Tuesday at Concert Hall in Pyatigorsk, Russia.

Ibragimov, Solomon Stop Opponents

Timur Ibragimov (29-2-1 16KOs) claimed the vacant WBO Intercontinental heavyweight title with a tenth round TKO over previously unbeaten Gurcharan Singh (20-1 11KOs) Tuesday night at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL. Time was 1:45.

Brad Solomon (13-0 5KOs) remained unbeaten with a sixth round TKO over Wilfredo Negron (26-15-1 19KOs). Time was 2:56. With the victory, Solomon claimed the WBA International and WBC Latino welterweight titles.

Luis Ortiz UD(8) Kendrick Releford

Pedro Rodriguez TKO(6) Abdulah Dobey

Inocente Fiss PTS(6) Reynaldo Cepeda

Jayce Monroe SD(4) James Bryant

Watson Pierre TKO(2) Ray Tillman

Calderon-Segura Officials Announced

The officials for Saturday night's junior flyweight unification bout between WBO champ Ivan Calderon and WBA champ Giovanni Segura have been announced. Jose H. Rivera (Puerto Rico) will serve as referee and the three judges scoring the bout will be: Carlos Colon (Puerto Rico), Patricia Jairman (United States) and Gustavo Padilla (Panama).

"Bam Bam" Brandon Rios Returns September 11

Photos: Team Rios

Lightweight contender “Bam Bam” Brandon Rios (24-0-1, 18 KOs) of Oxnard, CA will step back into the ring on September 11 in a 12-round WBA lightweight title eliminator against Anthony Peterson (30-0, 20 KOs) of Washington, DC in the co-feature bout of HBO Boxing After Dark at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, NV.

“This is the biggest and most important fight of my career so far. I’ve been training very, very hard and I plan on taking full advantage of this opportunity,” said Rios.


Resurgent Spivey Ready For "War At The Shore"

Long-time lightweight contender "Dangerous" Dorin Spivey (37-6, 29 KOs) will return to his home state on August 28, 2010, for the "War at the Shore" a night of professional boxing and mixed martial arts at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virginia Beach.
 
Spivey has put together two impressive performances in his last two fights, first dismantling then NABA Lightweight Champion Meacher Major in four rounds last November to win the belt and then scoring a near shutout over 14-3 Tyrell Samuel in April 2010 (Spivey did, however, lose his NABA belt on the scale when he failed to make 135).

 
At 37 years old, this could be the last chance for Spivey, who turned pro in 1993, remarkably without ever having had an amateur fight. The "War at the Shore" is being put on by promoter Nick Garone of X-Cel Worldwide and promoter Daryl DeCroix of Daryl DeCroix Promotions.
 
How do you feel going into this fight?
I feel great and strong. My weight is down and I feel great. I'm weighing like 139. I'm within three pounds of fight weight. I will probably come in at 134, actually.

 
You are enjoying a resurgence of your career lately. What is behind this upswing?
I got back with my old trainer, Coach John Hunter. I was with Pernell Whitaker and he had me fighting like him. I'm back with my old trainer and fighting aggressively. I've got a new frame of mind. I have my promoter Nick Garone and a bunch of great people with me now. I really feel like I can win the world title. I've got so much confidence and I'm so excited. I've been moving up in the ranks and hopefully I will land a WBA title shot. It's been mentioned; we're working on getting into position for a title shot. Hopefully it'll happen. Nick's working his magic.
 
How does it feel to be fighting in your home state of Virginia?
I'm so excited to be fighting in front of my hometown crowd. This crowd will probably sell out or come very close. I think it'll be a star-studded card. There are good fighters in this area. I've got a lot of family coming and a lot of friends and a lot of people from the gym where I train. It's going to be a good show.

 
What can you tell me about your opponent?
I'm fighting Leo Martinez from Chicago. He's a tough guy. He comes to fight and puts on a lot of pressure. He upset Eric Aiken, who was a world champ, so this guy can fight. 
 
This event is going to have boxing and MMA fights. What is your opinion of mixed martial arts?
I'm actually a fan of MMA. I support it and respect it, but would never cross over to it. They are tough and work hard. There's no way you're kicking me upside my head. You'll never see Dorin Spivey fighting MMA. I want no part of it. I would get DQ'd.

 
How are you managing to seemingly continue to improve at your age?
I'm better than ever now. The lifestyle I live; I live a clean life. I never smoked never drank. I saved myself for marriage. I never boxed an amateur fight. I'm better than ever. I'm faster, stronger, and sharper; I'm beating father time. It's amazing what I've accomplished. Meacher Major told me there's no way you're 37. I want to see some ID. I can't believe the shape you're in. 
 
You stayed close with Meacher Major after the two of you fought?
We're best of friends now. He's on the card with me. We've become very close. He's going down to 130, so me and him are going to be Nick's 1-2 punch at junior lightweight and lightweight.
 
Tickets can be purchased online at www.tickets.com, or by calling 800.955.5566. They are priced at $25, $35 and $50 ringside. Special VIP seating is available by calling 757.490.9860. For more information, visit www.championsofboxing.com. Doors open at 6:30. Action starts at 7:30.

Cherry Out Of Saturday's Main Event Against Lowther

The scheduled main event for Saturday's card live on ESPN2 from Montreal was to be Edner Cherry vs Omri Lowther. However, Cherry has been removed from the card and will not be competing. A replacement opponent is currently being searched for.

Schaefer To Meet With Marquez Regarding Next Bout

Golden Boy Promtions CEO Richard Schaefer is scheduled to meet with lightweight champ Juan Manuel Marquez to discuss his next bout. Marquez, who is coming off a unanimous decision victory in a rematch against Juan Diaz last month in Las Vegas, plans to fight before the year is out.

"We'll discuss what direction he wants to go and then circle back with HBO to see what will happen," Schaefer told ESPN.com. "Juan would like to fight in November or December, so that is what part of the plan is."

"The two most logical opponents are [Amir] Khan or [Michael] Katsidis," Schaefer said. "It depends on the weight he wants to fight at."

Schaefer said the most obvious fight would have been a trilogy against Manny Pacquiao, but they were unsuccessful in making such a bout and had to move forward.

"Juan really wanted to fight Pacquiao again," Schaefer said. "We tried. I know Marquez wants it. I know we at Golden Boy want it and the fans and media are also behind it, but we can't make [Pacquiao] fight Marquez. So we have to be prepared to go in another direction."

DiBella Issues Statement Regarding Kessler Withdrawl

(August 25, 2010 – New York, NY) On Wednesday morning it was announced by Sauerland Events, promoter of WBC super middleweight champion Mikkel Kessler, that due to an eye injury, Kessler was forced to pull out of the SHOWTIME Super Six: World Boxing Classic tournament. As a result, Kessler’s next scheduled tournament bout, a defense of his title vs. Allan Green, has been called off.

The following is a statement from Green promoter Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment, on the cancellation and Allan Green's future:

“First and foremost, I want to wish Mikkel Kessler a speedy recovery. Eye injuries are very serious, and I hope Mikkel does everything necessary to heal up and continue his career as the appropriate time.

“Obviously, all of Team Green is bitterly disappointed about not getting the opportunity to travel to Denmark for this great challenge. It is hard not to feel for Allan Green; this is the third training camp in the last year that he has had interrupted for various reasons beyond his control. In the coming days we will sit down with [Showtime Senior Vice President] Ken Hershman to discuss Allan’s future. We trust that Showtime will provide Allan with the opportunity to showcase his skills in a meaningful fight versus a world class opponent in the very near future."

W. Klitschko Workout

Photo: KMG/Dmitriy Abramov

Going/Austria (August 25, 2010) – Wladimir Klitschko (54-3, 48 KOs), of Kiev (Ukraine) and Hamburg (Germany), participated yesterday in a media work out in his training camp in Austria. He will face former WBC World Heavyweight Champion Samuel Peter (34-3, 27 KOs), of Las Vegas (USA) on Saturday, September 11, at Commerzbank-Arena Frankfurt/Main, Germany.

Photo: KMG/Dmitriy Abramov

Tickets, starting at € 24, can be purchased online at www.eventim.de or by phone +49-1805-57 00 00. Get the latest news on the Brothers Klitschko at www.facebook.com/vitaliwladimirklitschko.

Eye Injury KOs Kessler From Super Six Tourney

Team Sauerland regrets to inform the boxing world that WBC Super Middleweight Champion Mikkel Kessler has been forced to pull out of the SuperSix World Boxing Classic due to an eye injury. His title defence against Allan Green in Herning, Denmark on September 25 has been cancelled.

“This is the most disappointing moment of my boxing career,” Kessler said. “After defeating Carl Froch, I was on the way to win the tournament, so pulling out now really hurts. The eye problem has bothered me since the beginning of the Super Six in my preparation for the bout against Andre Ward. It also bothered me in the fights against Ward and Froch, and in my training for the fight against Green it has become unbearable. I have consulted leading experts in Denmark and Germany and they have advised me to take a break from boxing so that the problem can heal. I have been assured that it will heal completely and that I will be back in the ring next year. As a fair sportsman, I do not want to delay the Super Six, which is still the best thing that has happened to boxing for a long time. I wish my fellow contestants the best of luck - may the best man win. I will be there to fight the winner in 2011.”

SHOWTIME Sports Executive Vice President Ken Hershman expresses his disappointment for Kessler but assures the boxing fans around the world that the tournament will go on.

“I commend Mikkel Kessler for his decision,” said Hershman. “He has made a wise choice in light of his doctors’ recommendations and he is showing tremendous respect for his fellow competitors and for the tournament format itself.

“We will publicly address how this turn of events affects the tournament in the coming days. I assure you we will make the best of this scenario. In fact, I have been aware of Mikkel’s situation for a few days and I have a vision for how we can proceed that will enhance the excitement of the tournament. First, I must have some internal discussions but mark my words, the drama of the Super Six will be unrelenting and we will crown a champion in the early part of 2011.”

Promoter Kalle Sauerland said Kessler did “absolutely the right thing.” He stated: “You can recover from losing in the ring but you cannot recover from losing your health. There is nothing that is of bigger importance than the boxer´s health. As much as we regret to see Mikkel pulling out, he was left with no other choice. He should take all the time in the world to recover. He can take comfort in the fact that he looked reborn in his last bout. Once he is recovered, he will continue where he left off. The Viking Warrior will be back.”

Added Team Sauerland General Manager Chris Meyer. “We are saddened to see Mikkel pulling out but his health is more important than anything he could win inside the ring. The WBC will probably make him “champion emeritus” so that he can fight against the reigning champion once he is ready to come back.”

Highly-reputed eye specialist Professor Dr. med Gerhard Lang, who is the Director of the Eye Hospital at Universitätsklinikum Ulm and also served as the 2010 World Ophthalmology Congress

President, examined Kessler and believes a proper rest is all the “Viking Warrior” needs. “Mikkel said he has been bothered by problems with his vision during the fights against Ward and Froch as well as in the training in the build-up to these fights. There is a weakness of the superior oblique muscle of his left eye. To continue boxing, the muscle needs a proper rest, meaning no fighting or sparring for nine months. After this break, a complete recovery is expected.”

For information on all SHOWTIME Sports telecasts, including exclusive behind-the-scenes video and photo galleries from its events and complete information on the Super Six World Boxing Classic, please visit the website at http://www.sports.sho.com

Ryder Ready For Pro Debut

Angel’s ABC top Middleweight, southpaw John Ryder who is nicknamed “the Gorilla” will be crossing over to the paid ranks on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” which is taking place on Friday 10th September at York Hall, Bethnal Green.

The co – feature fights involving two of the UK and Ireland’s very best boxers, John O’Donnell who is taking on Olympic Bronze Medalist American Terrence Cauthen over 12 rounds and Tyson Fury who will be fighting over 10 rounds will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.

The top class amateur from Islington is hoping that he continues his impressive amateur pedigree of 30 wins in 35 contests, into the professional game.

John Ryder said, “This is a new path in my life and I’m really looking forward to making my pro debut in front of the boxing fans at York Hall. I’m looking to go out and make a good impression but not looking to get over excited and go all out for the knockout, but do what I do best which is box. “

Highly regarded trainer Tony Sims who has recently signed management papers with Ryder said, “I am very pleased to have signed up John, he is a top prospect and I believe his style is suited for the pros. He had a good amateur career in which he won two ABA national senior novice championships and the North West London Divisional middleweight title and boxed the likes of George Groves and Kirk Garvey”

“He also will bring his trainer Colin Lake with him; it has worked well up till now so why change it.”

“The Gorilla will be spending quality time at my gym and sparring the likes of European and British Champion Darren Barker, John O’Donnell and Lee Purdy which will only add to his Sharpness“

The exciting “Night of International Boxing” will also see Colchester’s Lee “Lights Out” Purdy who will be back in action looking to defend his Southern Area Welterweight title (*subject to board approval), Royston’s former ABA Champion Bradley Evans is stepping up to 6 x 3 minutes rounds for the first time in his pro career, Phill “Intense” Fury will be looking to record his 6th straight victory and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield’s will be looking to entertain the York Hall crowd and extend his unbeaten record.

Haddenham’s Tyler Goodjohn (Light Welterweight) will also be making his professional debut on the night.

Tickets for this great night of international boxing are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased from the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402 or via www.hennessysports.com. Tickets are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for Ringside.

Froch Backs Booth

CARL FROCH is backing Jason Booth to give Nottingham another world champion next month. Booth (35-5) challenges for the Canadian’s (32-1) IBF belt at Rainton Meadows Arena, Houghton-le-Spring on Saturday 11th September. Froch who controversially lost his WBC crown to Mikkel Kessler in April is currently preparing for an October showdown against Arthur Abraham. ‘The Cobra’ reckons he and recovering alcoholic Booth will score a big East Midlands double.

Froch said: “I have known Jason since we were kids fighting as amateurs..

“His story is one you couldn’t make up and to see him back, doing himself and Nottingham proud is fantastic.”

Molitor has already beaten Booth’s brother Nicky and in his first reign as IBF king beat up Michael Hunter in Hartlepool.

Froch added: “Molitor is a world class operator as his record proves.

“I think if Jason can overcome what he’s already done in life, then he can upset Molitor. Booth is in the form and the opportunity has come at the right time.”

In the chief supporting bout to Molitor-Booth, British featherweight champion Martin Lindsay (16-0) boxes a non-title bout.

Local stars in action include Olympic bronze medallist Tony Jeffries (7-0-1), Jon Lewis Dickinson (8-1), Travis Dickinson (6-0), Trevor Crewe (2-2), Gary Fox (2-0), Kirk Goodings (4-0), Martin Ward (8-0), George Watson (8-1-2), and debutant Glen Foot.

Tickets for the massive night of action are available from 0871 226 1508, 0191 564 0202 or www.frankmaloney.com. VIP Ringside are £95 with the rest a bargain £35. Get yours in advance for a show that looks certain to sell out


Luis Cruz To Headline "Boxeo Boricua In Las Piedras"


Photo by Promociones Miguel Cotto

Promociones Miguel Cotto in association with H2 Entertainment announced “Boxeo Boricua In Las Piedras” today at the Juan R. Viera Coliseum. In the Main Event the new Puerto Rican fan favorite and undefeated junior lightweight prospect Luis “El Artesano” Cruz (15-0, 12 KOs) will clash with Colombian warrior Hevinson Herrera (14-5-1, 12 KOs) for the vacant junior lightweight WBO Latin title in a 10 round bout. “I’m really happy to fight in front of my home town fans. I’m excited and can’t wait to be in the ring this Saturday. I’ve been training really hard for this fight. This is my time,” Luis Cruz said.

“These are the fights that the fans wants to see. Luis is a great young hungry boxer and Hevinson is a true warrior. This will be great fight,” said promoter Miguel Cotto.

In the Co-Main Event Jayson “La Maravilla” Vélez (13-0, 11 KOs) will be fighting Isaac Hidalgo (7-5-2, 1 KOs) in an 8 round fight. Also top prospects Jesús Rojas (14-1, 11 KOs), Juan “El Cowi” Herrera (4-2, 3 KOs), Luis Braña Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs) and Jonuel Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs) will fight on Saturday night.

“Boxeo Boricua In Las Piedras” is presented by Promociones Miguel Cotto and H2 Entertainment. Tickets are available in Ticketcenter (787)792-5000 or visiting www.tcpr.com Prices: $12.00 and $20.00.




More On Judah-Clark

“We contacted representatives of just about everyone among the top 20 junior welterweights in the US and abroad and offered them a fight with Zab” Promoter Kathy Duva of Main Events said. “They all turned us down. Michael Clark, on the other hand, called up and asked for the fight. You’ve got to admire and reward that kind of passion and confidence. Michael Clark is certain that he can beat Zab Judah and he wants to come to Newark and prove it.”

Former undisputed welterweight and junior welterweight champion Zab “Super” Judah (39-6, 27 KO’s) takes on Michael “Cold Blood” Clark (40-5-1, 18 KO’s) on October 2 at Newark’s Prudential Center Arena.

A veteran of “The Contender” boxing series, Clark has been on a winning streak since his 2007 fight with top ten prospect, Mike Alvarado, was stopped due to a hand injury. In his most recent bout, Clark won a unanimous decision against Jason Pires in May. “Cold Blood” came to Judah’s attention when he approached Judah’s promoters and asked for the bout.

“I have all the respect in the world for Michael Clark because he is willing to come to the Prudential Center to face me,” Judah, whose “Super Judah Promotions” is also co-promoter of the bout, said. “The top junior welterweights want no part of Zab Judah. We had a great night in Newark this summer and expect to give the fans an even greater night in October. Zab Judah is all the way back!”

Over 4,000 motivated fans turned out at “The Rock” for Judah’s return to the ring in July when Judah scored a spectacular knock out over a very game Jose Armando Santa Cruz. The show was an all-around success, as fans were entertained from top to bottom with a series of explosive undercard bouts leading up to the main event.

“On Oct. 2nd at Prudential Center Clark will be Zab’s second victim on the way to the top of the junior welterweight division,” Bill Halkias of Super Judah Promotions, said. “Zab’s TKO victory against Santa Cruz proves he hasn’t lost a step. He has developed into a stronger, faster and smarter fighter. Michael Clark will learn first-hand what it’s like to fight a great fighter who has become an even greater fighter,” he added. “Zab will continue to make highlight reels with his crushing power and the fastest hands in boxing. He is determined to be the best and anyone in his way will learn that the hard way.”

An exciting slate of is also being planned for October 2nd. An announcement about undercard bouts will be made shortly.

The fight, promoted by Main Events and Super Judah Promotions, will take place on Saturday, October 2nd at Prudential Center, Newark, NJ.

Tickets priced at $53, $78, $103 and $203 (ringside) can be purchased at Prudential Center Box Office, by calling TicketMaster at 800-745-3000 or www.Prucenter.com.

"Mayweather To Announce Fight Very Soon" Says Leach

Photo: LasVegasWeekly.com

According to Robin Leach, an English celebrity who hosted the television program "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous", Floyd Mayweather Jr. is planning to announce his next fight very soon. Mayweather Jr. and Leach spent the weekend together at the Del Mar Racetrack, north of San Diego.

Leach had this to say to Las Vegas Weekly "He told me that he was getting ready to fight again and that the bout would be in Dubai."

Mayweather was said to have told this to Leach "We'll announce it all very soon. But this time it won't be in Vegas. It will be in another desert kingdom-Dubai." Check back with R&D Boxing Blog for further updates.

Schaefer: "Hopkins Willing And Able To Face Pascal"

Newly crowned WBC/IBO light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal, who beat Chad Dawson on an eleven round technical decision on August 14 called out a lot of fighters after his win. One of the names was Bernard Hopkins. Hopkins is said to be ready and willing to face Pascal and is willing to go to Pascal's hometown of Montreal.

Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer has talked with Pascal's promoter, GYM. Schaefer had this to say "Pascal called out Bernard Hopkins and I talked to Bernard and Bernard will be glad to oblige and is accepting the challenge. So, I have had a couple of conversations with Don Majeski, the agent for Jean Pascal and so I said, Look Bernard is ready, willing and able."

Schaefer would continue to say "It's a matter of just packing the bags, and we're ready to travel and go to Canada. Bernard is ready to show it to a young guy again. They call Jean Pascal the king of the light heavyweights because he beat Chad Dawson, but I think the king of the light heavyweights is Bernard Hopkins, and he's ready and willing and able to go."

Tyson Fury To Be On ShoBox

USA boxing fans will finally get a chance to see unbeaten 6’7 heavyweight Tyson Fury (11-0, 9 KOs) on September 10 as ShoBox: The New Generation will travel to the famous York Hall in London, England in their ongoing quest to bring SHOWTIME subscribers the best young boxing prospects in action. Fury’s opponent is yet to be named and the bout is scheduled for ten. In the TV opener, jr welterweight John O’Donnell (23-1, 11 KOs) takes on Olympic Bronze medalist Terrence Cauthen (35-6, 9 KOs) over 12 rounds. Tickets for the Hennessy Sports promoted show are £35 for unreserved seats and £60 for ringside.

Ouma vs Gilbert Sept. 25

The Grand Sierra Resort and Let’s Get It On Promotions are pleased to present a very special main event for Reno Xtreme Fights VI on Saturday September 25th. Former IBF Jr. middleweight champion, Kassim “The Dream” Ouma (26-7-1, 16 KOs), will take on Reno’s own Joey Gilbert (20-2, 15 KOs) for the vacant NABA middleweight title.

Ouma has oe of the most unbelievable stories in professional sports. He was kidnapped by the National Resistance Army at the age of six in his home country of Uganda and forced to be a child soldier. After years of being ordered to do unthinkable things, Ouma found boxing. While on a trip with the Ugandan National Boxing Team, Ouma entered the United States and did not leave. He turned pro in 1998, eventually wining the IBF Jr. Middleweight world title. While boxing in the US, Ouma learned that his father was beaten to death in Uganda, possibly due to his leaving the country. He did not escape violence once in the United States. In December of 2002, Ouma was shot twice as an innocent bystander during a drive by shooting in Florida. He was back in the ring the following May.

Many think that Ouma has lost a step and may be past his prime. He is only 31 years old, but he has lived the struggles of ten lifetimes. Ouma is coming off of a unanimous decision loss to current NABO and NABF Jr. middleweight champion Vanes Martirosyan. Ouma has been eager to get back in the ring to earn another world title shot. From poverty and war, to world champion glory, Ouma continues to fight.

“I can’t wait to get back into the ring in Reno.” Says Ouma. “I am thankful for this opportunity. Boxing is my life and my passion.”

Ouma’s dance partner is Reno, NV’s own, Joey Gilbert. A once top-ten ranked middleweight, Gilbert has an opportunity to position himself for a world title shot again. He has won three fights in a row, two by knockout.

Gilbert has been in the ring with a couple of the best middle and super-middleweights in the world. His first defeat came against current IBO middleweight champion, Peter Manfredo Jr. That fight ended prematurely as a result of an accidental headbutt, and Manfredo’s hand was raised by way of technical decision. In February of 2008, Gilbert went twelve hard rounds with super-middleweight world title challenger, Jesse Brinkley, and lost a decision. Now back at middleweight, the 34 year old Gilbert realizes the opportunity that is in front of him.

“It is an honor to fight Kassim Ouma.” Says Gilbert. “This is my shot, however, and I am committed to winning. A lot is on the line in this fight.”

The winner of Gilbert vs. Ouma will earn a top 15 world ranking by the WBA, and will be eligible for an optional title defense by the champion, Germany’s Felix Sturm. Ticket information will be announced soon.

Mosley vs Mora To Be Shown On The Big Screen 

Present and future stars of boxing will collide on the big screen in 200: Celebrate and Dominate Mosley vs. Mora LIVE in HD, as part of a Mexican Independence Day Bicentennial celebration featuring Five-Time and Three-Division World Champion Sugar Shane Mosley and former World Champion Sergio "The Latin Snake" Mora in a junior middleweight showdown on Saturday, September 18 at 9:00 p.m. Eastern / 6:00 p.m. Pacific.

Presented by Golden Boy Promotions and NCM Fathom in high definition LIVE from the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles to more than 300 movie theaters nationwide, the event will also feature rising Mexican phenom Saul "Canelo" Alvarez who squares off against former World Champion Carlos "Tata" Baldomir and top junior welterweight contender "Vicious" Victor Ortiz who will face former World Champion "Vicious" Vivian Harris.

Tickets for 200: Celebrate and Dominate Mosley vs. Mora LIVE in HD are available at participating theater box offices and online at www.FathomEvents.com. For a complete list of theater locations and prices, please visit the Fathom website (theaters and participants are subject to change).

"We are thrilled to once again team up with NCM Fathom to show a great night of boxing on the big screen for boxing and sports fans across the country," said CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Richard Schaefer. "This is a special opportunity for Mexicans and Mexican-Americans to be part of Mexico's Bicentennial celebration by coming to the theaters and watching the fight together. We look forward to another great night of boxing action at the movies."

Both Mosley and Mora hail from the Los Angeles area with Mosley returning home and to the Staples Center for the first time since his spectacular knockout victory over then Welterweight World Champion Antonio Margarito in January of 2009. Mora, who is well known for his first place finish on the premiere season of the NBC reality series "The Contender," isreturning to the STAPLES Center after not having fought there since his 2005 decision victory over Peter Manfredo. On September 18, Morais looking to become the first fighter of Mexican descent to defeat the future Hall of Famer Mosley.

Mosley (46-6, 39 KOs) is undefeated in two bouts at STAPLES Center against the legendary Oscar De La Hoya and Margarito. He has already earned six world titles ruling the lightweight, welterweight and junior middleweight divisions over his storied 16-year career defeating De La Hoya (twice), Fernando Vargas (twice), Luis Collazo, Ricardo Mayorga and Margarito along the way. On September 18, his challenge will be turning back the extremely hungry and talented Mora.

Mora (22-1-1, 6 KOs) is a former Junior Middleweight World Champion hailing from East LA. He last fought at STAPLES Center in 2005 when he scored a thrilling split decision victory over Peter Manfredo in a rematch of his final bout championship win of "The Contender." Going unbeaten in his next four fights, Mora began to rapidly climb the junior middleweight ranks, eventually winning the junior middleweight world title held by the late Vernon Forrest in June of 2008. He now looks to take down a legend in Mosley and become the first fighter of Mexican descent to defeat the future Hall of Famer.

"This Mexican Independence Day Bicentennial celebration features one powerful fight card and boxing fans will get the ultimate front row, ring-side experience in theaters across the country," said Dan Diamond, vice president of Fathom. "This promises to be a memorable night of great boxing and entertainment for the entire family."

200: Celebrate and Dominate Mosley vs. Mora LIVE in HD will be shown live in 311 select movie theaters including AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark USA Inc., Clearview Cinemas, Cobb Theatres, Kerasotes Showplace Theatres, Marcus Theatres, National Amusements, Rave Motion Pictures and Regal Entertainment Group movie theaters, as well as Arlington Theatre (Santa Barbara, CA), The Carolina (Asheville, NC) and Penn Cinema (Lititz, PA).

The undercard promises to be one of the strongest in recent memory featuring unbeaten and wildly popular Mexican phenom Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (33-0-1, 25 KO's) facing his toughest opponent to date in former World Champion Carlos "Tata" Baldomir (45-12-6, 14 KO's). Additionally, top junior welterweight contender "Vicious" Victor Ortiz (27-2-1, 21 KO's) will square off against one of the hardest punchers in the junior welterweight division, former World Champion "Vicious" Vivian Harris (29-4-1, 19 KO's).

200: Celebrate and Dominate Mosley vs. Mora LIVEin HD is the latest boxing match presented in movie theaters across the country through NCM Fathom's exclusive Digital Broadcast Network - North America's largest cinema broadcast network. NCM Fathom and Golden Boy Promotions first teamed up for the highly successful cinema presentation of the Floyd "Money" Mayweather vs. Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez fight in September 2009. The two companies announced earlier this year they would again collaborate to present live world championship boxing on the big screen in high definition throughout 2010.

Maccarinelli, Chisora Helping Each Other Out

Enzo Maccarinelli and Derek Chisora are ensuring they are in the best possible shape ahead of the Magnificent Seven - by sparring with each other.
 
The pair are both in action on September 18 on Frank Warren's massive show 'The Magnificent Seven" at the LG Arena, Birmingham, live on Sky Box Office.
 
Maccarinelli defends his European cruiserweight title against Alexander Frenkel.
 
And Chisora will attempt to add the Commonwealth heavyweight title to his British crown against Sam Sexton.
 
The pair have sparred before, and believe they are the perfect foil for each other.
 
"Enzo is looking so sharp in the gym a the moment," said Chisora.
 
"He's showing me a lot, and he can really bang for cruiserweight.
 
"Not only will Big Mac win this fight against Frenkel, but I think he will get back to world level as well.
 
"What I've seen in sparring has been very impressive."
 
Maccarinelli added: "I think Del Boy is one of the best prospects in the country.
 
"He's very under-rated and I don't think he got enough credit for winning the British title.
 
"Danny Williams was a good experienced name on his record, but I think against Sexton everyone is going to see the talent that Chisora has got."
 
Tickets for the Magnificent Seven are priced at £40, £50, £80, £150 and £200 and are available from:
 
LG Arena
0844 338 8000
 
Ticketmaster
0844 844 0444
www.ticketmaster.co.uk
 
See Tickets
0871 220 0260
www.seetickets.com

Tyler Goodjohn Ready For Pro Debut

Haddenham’s Tyler Goodjohn is set to turn his back on his amateur career and make his professional debut on the undercard of the exciting “Night of International Boxing” promoted by Hennessy Sports at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday 10th September.

The co – feature fights involving two of the UK and Ireland’s very best boxers, John O’Donnell who is taking on Olympic Bronze Medalist American Terrence Cauthen over 12 rounds and Tyson Fury who will be fighting over 10 rounds will be televised in America on SHOWTIME® at 11p.m. ET/PT (same day delay). The event will also be shown in Canada on the Super Channel Network and the UK Broadcaster will be announced soon.

The 19 year old former Junior ABA champion made the decision a while ago to turn pro after a debatable decision in the quarter finals of the ABA’s went against him. So earlier this year he joined European Champion Darren Barker, Southern Area Champion Lee Purdy and hot prospect Bradley Evans by joining up with highly respected trainer, Hainault’s Tony Sims.

Trainer Tony Sims said “The lad is only 19 years old and has a lot to learn but he’s already showing true dedication and commitment by doing a 3 ½ hour round trip a day just to get to the gym.  But then again when you think he’s training and sparring with the likes of John O’Donnell, Lenny Daws and Lee Purdy it makes the travelling worthwhile and can only have a positive effect on his future.”

Tyler Goodjohn said “It’s always been in the pipe line for me to turn pro and that decision was made even easier when I teamed up with Tony Sims, he’s not only a top bloke but also a fantastic trainer who has already taught me so much in the last 6 months. It also helps when you train with guys like Darren Barker, Lee Purdy and Bradley Evans.  All of this experience can only make me become a better boxer and seeing what Darren has achieved inspires me to work hard and follow in his footsteps.”

“I will be bringing a good crowd with me to York Hall and hopefully I will reward them by put on an exciting show and recording my first win.” Added Goodjohn.

The exciting “Night of International Boxing” will also see Colchester’s Lee “Lights Out” Purdy who will be back in action looking to defend his Southern Area Welterweight title (*subject to board approval), Royston’s former ABA Champion Bradley Evans is stepping up to 6 x 3 minutes rounds for the first time in his pro career, Phill “Intense” Fury will be looking to record his 6th straight victory and the highly popular Light Welterweight Chris “the flash” Evangelou from Enfield will be looking to entertain the York Hall crowd and extend his unbeaten record.

Capetillo Won't Be In Segura's Corner Against Calderon

Much has been made about the association between WBA junior flyweight champ Giovanni Segura and trainer Javier Capetillo going into Saturday's unification bout against WBO champ Ivan Calderon. Capetillo, who lost his training license following his involvement in the hand wrap scandal involving Antonio Margarito, arrived in Puerto Rico with Segura earlier this week.

However, Segura says Capetillo is not involved in the hand wrapping and there should be no worries from the Calderon camp.

"Actually, he has never wrapped my hands. The guy who wraps my hands is Arturo Mota. It's been that way throughout all of my career that he has wrapped my hands," said Segura. "About the hand wraps, it's always been Arturo Mota who has wrapped my hands. He's very good on doing it and I've never had a problem with it. I've felt good and I've felt confident, so why change it."

In addition, Capetillo will not be allowed to work the corner as he is not licensed.


Smith Won't Let McDermott Spoil His Party

Paul Smith will headline the Liverpool Echo Arena on Saturday 23rd October in a defence of his British super-middleweight title against Darren McDermott, live on Sky Sports.
 
A win for Smith will leave him just one step away from owning a prestigious Lonsdale belt outright, following victories over rivals Tony Quigley and Tony Dodson.
 
But former British middleweight title challenger McDermott is determined to spoil the party.
 
Smith, 27, has happy memories of the Echo Arena after winning his two British title fights there.
 
Last October he defeated Quigley on a split decision, before retaining against Dodson in March.
 
"I love fighting in Liverpool, and I love fighting at the Echo Arena," said WBO number five and WBC number eight Smith.
 
"The fans up here are the best in the world, and they will make the atmosphere very special when I meet McDermott.
 
"I have a lot of respect for Darren, but there is no way he is getting his hands on my title.
 
"Not only is he standing between me and a Lonsdale belt, but if I lose to him I can kiss goodbye to any chance of fighting for a world title.
 
"The next 12 months could potentially be huge for me. There is no way I will slip up."
 
But McDermott, the Black Country Body Snatcher, hit back by saying: "Paul's a great champion, but I saw faults against Dodson and Quigley that I will exploit.
 
"I'm coming up from middleweight but that means I have the speed to make Smith look even slower that usual."
 
Promoter Frank Warren added: "I'm delighted to be returning to Liverpool, one of the most passionate cities for boxing in the world.
 
"There are some very talented fighters on Merseyside at the moment, and the next three or four years are going to be very exciting indeed.
 
"I've been saying for a while that Liverpool can be the new Manchester, and I can see the Smith brothers and Tony Bellew leading the way."
 
Also in action will be Commonwealth light-heavyweight champion Tony Bellew, as well as Smith's younger brother Liam, and top prospects Joe Selkirk and Tobias Webb.
 
Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £80, £100 & £150 and are available from:
 
Echo Arena Box Office
0844 800 0400
www.echoarena.com
 
Ticketmaster
0844 844 0444
www.ticketmaster.co.uk
 
See Tickets
0871 220 0260
www.seetickets.com

Asiku Ready For Gonzalez

IBO World Featherweight Champion “Action” Jackson Asiku says Jhonny Gonzalez will be his stepping stone to the big names in the Featherweight division.

"When the experts and the American boxing fans see me KO Jhonny Gonzalez they will want to see me take on Gamboa, Rojas & JuanMa. I bring an exciting attacking style to the ring and I can beat all of them. Watch me on September 15th and see me destroy Gonzalez in my American debut.... JACKSON ASIKU IS COMING!"

Roach: "Manny Will Have Too Much For Margarito"

Although no official announcement has been made regarding the proposed November 13 bout between Manny Pacquiao and Antonio Margarito, trainer Freddie Roach says Pacquiao will be ready. Despite the size advantage Margarito will have. Roach undoubtedly believes Pacquiao will be too much for the "Tijuana Tornado."